Coordinate Geometry • Topic 1 of 3

The Cartesian Plane and Coordinates of a Point

What is the Cartesian Plane?

The Cartesian plane (or coordinate plane) is a two-dimensional plane formed by two perpendicular number lines: the x-axis (horizontal) and the y-axis (vertical). Their intersection point is called the origin, denoted by O(0, 0).

What are Coordinates of a Point?

A point's coordinates are an ordered pair (x, y) that tells its exact location on the plane:

  • The x-coordinate (abscissa) tells how far to move left or right from the origin
  • The y-coordinate (ordinate) tells how far to move up or down from the origin

How to Plot a Point (x, y):

  1. Start at the origin (0, 0)
  2. Move horizontally: x units right (if x > 0) or left (if x < 0)
  3. Move vertically: y units up (if y > 0) or down (if y < 0)
  4. Mark the point where you end

Real-Life Applications:

  • Maps and GPS navigation (latitude and longitude)
  • Video game character positioning
  • Architectural blueprints and floor plans
  • Air traffic control radar screens
The Coordinate PlanexyO-3-2-1123Q I (+,+)Q II (−,+)Q III (−,−)Q IV (+,−)P(2, 2)22
Solved Examples
1
Worked Example

Solve a standard problem on The Cartesian Plane and Coordinates of a Point.

Solution

Apply the formula/method shown in the concept section above.

Key Points

  • Understand the definition and properties of The Cartesian Plane and Coordinates of a Point.
  • Study the worked examples and practice similar problems.
  • Always verify your answer using the original conditions.
Quick Check — 4 MCQs
Tap an option to check your answer0 / 4
Q1.The horizontal axis is called the:
Explanation: x-axis.
Q2.The point where the two axes meet is the:
Explanation: Origin $(0,0)$.
Q3.In $(3,5)$, the abscissa (x-coordinate) is:
Explanation: First coordinate.
Q4.In $(3,5)$, the ordinate (y-coordinate) is:
Explanation: Second coordinate.
Practice more MCQs → 📝 Assignment · 35 marks