Coordinate Geometry
Coordinate geometry is a branch of mathematics that allows us to determine the position of a point in a plane using two perpendicular lines called axes. These axes, termed the x-axis (horizontal) and y-axis (vertical), intersect at a point called the origin (0, 0). The plane formed by these axes is known as the Cartesian or coordinate plane.
Key Aspects
- Locating Points: The position of any object is expressed using two coordinates
- X-coordinate (abscissa): Distance from the y-axis, measured along the x-axis.
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Y-coordinate (ordinate): Distance from the x-axis, measured along the y-axis.
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Quadrants: The Cartesian plane is divided into four quadrants:
- Quadrant I: (+, +)
- Quadrant II: (-, +)
- Quadrant III: (-, -)
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Quadrant IV: (+, -)
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Coordinate Representation: Coordinates are expressed as (x, y), where the sequence matters. For instance, (3, 4) differs from (4, 3).
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Importance of Reference Points: As illustrated through activities, understanding points on a grid or paper requires knowing the distance from both vertical and horizontal reference lines.
Historical Context
The concepts of coordinate geometry trace back to the work of René Descartes, a French mathematician who introduced this system to describe the position of points in a plane, enhancing our ability to visualize mathematical principles.