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CARTESIAN COORDINATES

Cartesian Coordinates

Definition Of Cartesian Coordinates

Cartesian Coordinate System consists of two axes, X and Y, which intersect each other at a point called `origin`, and is used to define the position of any point by using ordered pairs.

More About Cartesian Coordinates

In two-dimensional coordinate system, the reference of a point is given by using two coordinates, X and Y.
In three-dimensional coordinate system, the reference of a point is given by using three coordinates, X, Y, and Z.

Video Examples: Math - Cartesian Coordinate System

Example of Carroll Diagram

example of Cartesian_Coordinates

Four points are marked on the Cartesian coordinate system: (3, 2) in blue, (- 2, 3) in red, (- 1, - 2) in brown, and (2, - 3) in green

Solved Example on Carroll Diagram

Ques: Which of the given coordinates represents the point marked on the coordinate plane?

example of Cartesian Coordinates

Choices:

A. (3, 4)
B. (1, 1)
C. (2, 6)
D. (2, 5)
Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1: The point is 2 units to the right of the Y-axis.
Step 2: So, the X-coordinate is 2.
Step 3: The point is 5 units above the X-axis.
Step 4: So, the Y-coordinate is 5.
Step 5: The coordinates of the point marked on the coordinate plane are (2, 5).

Quick Summary

  • Cartesian Coordinates use two axes (X and Y) intersecting at the origin.
  • Points are defined by ordered pairs (X, Y) in 2D and (X, Y, Z) in 3D.
  • The X-coordinate represents the horizontal distance from the origin.
  • The Y-coordinate represents the vertical distance from the origin.
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🍎 Teacher Insights

Use graph paper to help students visualize the coordinate plane. Start with simple examples and gradually increase the complexity. Emphasize the importance of accurate plotting and reading of coordinates. Use real world examples such as map reading.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Basic Algebra
  • Number Lines
  • Axes

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: What are the coordinates of the origin?

Q2: In which quadrant is the point (-2, 3) located?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the origin in the Cartesian coordinate system?
A: The origin is the point where the X and Y axes intersect, represented by the coordinates (0, 0).

Q: How do you plot a point given its coordinates?
A: Start at the origin, move horizontally along the X-axis according to the X-coordinate, and then move vertically along the Y-axis according to the Y-coordinate.

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