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Plot points in all four quadrants

The coordinate plane represents locations as ordered pairs (x,y)(x,y), with xx measuring horizontal position and yy measuring vertical position; the signs of the coordinates determine the four quadrants, while points on the axes and the origin are identified separately from quadrant locations. Accurate interpretation requires maintaining coordinate order and applying the scale consistently, including for negative and positive values. This scope excludes three-dimensional, polar, and other generalized coordinate systems.

Detailed Explanation: Plot points in all four quadrants

To plot an ordered pair ((x,y))((x,y)):

  1. Start at the origin, ((0,0))((0,0)).
  2. Use the xx-coordinate first:
    • Move right if xx is positive.
    • Move left if xx is negative.
  3. Use the yy-coordinate second:
    • Move up if yy is positive.
    • Move down if yy is negative.
  4. Mark and label the point.

The signs tell you the quadrant:

  • Quadrant I: ((+,+))((+,+))
  • Quadrant II: ((−,+))((-,+))
  • Quadrant III: ((−,−))((-,-))
  • Quadrant IV: ((+,−))((+,-))

Example

Plot and label these points:

A(−3,2),B(4,2),C(3,−2),D(−2,−3)A(-3,2),\quad B(4,2),\quad C(3,-2),\quad D(-2,-3)

Assume each grid unit represents 11 unit.

Point (A(−3,2))(A(-3,2)):

  • The xx-coordinate is (−3)(-3), so move 33 units left.
  • The yy-coordinate is 22, so move 22 units up.
  • Mark the point. Since its signs are ((−,+))((-,+)), AA is in Quadrant II.

Point (B(4,2))(B(4,2)):

  • Move 44 units right.
  • Move 22 units up.
  • Mark the point. Since its signs are ((+,+))((+,+)), BB is in Quadrant I.

Point (C(3,−2))(C(3,-2)):

  • Move 33 units right.
  • Move 22 units down.
  • Mark the point. Since its signs are ((+,−))((+,-)), CC is in Quadrant IV.

Point (D(−2,−3))(D(-2,-3)):

  • Move 22 units left.
  • Move 33 units down.
  • Mark the point. Since its signs are ((−,−))((-,-)), DD is in Quadrant III.

Always read the coordinates in order: move horizontally using xx first, then vertically using yy.

Learn by doing: Plot points in all four quadrants

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Cartesian Grid - Points


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