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X-axis

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Algebra and Trigonometry

Definition

The x-axis is the horizontal axis in a rectangular coordinate system. It is used to determine the horizontal position of points on a graph.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The x-axis intersects with the y-axis at the origin (0,0).
  2. Points on the x-axis have a y-coordinate of 0.
  3. The equation $x = c$ represents a vertical line parallel to the y-axis and intersects the x-axis at point $(c, 0)$.
  4. In inequalities, shading above or below a line depends on whether you are dealing with $>\text{ or }\geq$ versus $<\text{ or }\leq$. For example, $y < mx + b$ shades below the line.
  5. In trigonometry, angles measured counterclockwise from the positive x-axis correspond to positive angle measures.

Review Questions

  • What are the coordinates of any point located on the x-axis?
  • How does one identify if an equation represents a vertical line parallel to the y-axis?
  • Where do you shade for inequality $y > mx + b$?
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