Origin

Definition

The origin is the point (0, 0) in the rectangular coordinate system where the x-axis and y-axis intersect. It serves as a reference point for locating all other points in the plane.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The coordinates of the origin are always (0, 0).
2. It is the point where both axes in a Cartesian plane intersect.
3. In equations of lines, if a line passes through the origin, its y-intercept is zero.
4. The distance from any point (x, y) to the origin can be found using the formula $\sqrt{x^2 + y^2}$.
5. In transformations such as translations and rotations, the origin often serves as a fixed reference point.

Review Questions

• What are the coordinates of the origin?
• How do you calculate the distance between any given point and the origin?
• What does it mean for a line to pass through the origin in terms of its equation?

Related terms

Cartesian Plane: A two-dimensional plane defined by an x-axis and a y-axis.

Coordinate System: A system that uses numbers to uniquely determine the position of points or geometric elements.

Y-Intercept: The value at which a line crosses the y-axis; for lines passing through the origin, this value is zero.