The Coordinate System
In mathematics, ordered pairs (x, y) are used to locate points in the plane. A horizontal number line and a vertical number line intersect at their zero points to form a coordinate system for the plane. The horizontal number line is called x-axis, the vertical number line is called y-axis, and the point where the two lines intersect is called the origin. The number lines separate the plane into four quadrants. The quadrants I, II, III and IV are named in anti-clock wise direction. In any ordered pair x is called the abscissa and y is called the ordinate.
Find out more about the coordinate system by reading the explanation below.
Practice: Answer the following exercises about the coordinate system.