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Y-axis

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Algebra and Trigonometry

Definition

The y-axis is the vertical number line in a rectangular coordinate system. It is used to represent the second coordinate in an ordered pair (x, y).

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The y-axis intersects the x-axis at the origin, which is the point (0, 0).
  2. Positive values on the y-axis are located above the origin, while negative values are below.
  3. In an ordered pair (x, y), the y-coordinate indicates how far up or down a point is from the x-axis.
  4. Graphs of functions can be reflected across the y-axis to show symmetry.
  5. Vertical lines run parallel to the y-axis and have equations of the form x = c where c is a constant.

Review Questions

  • What is the position of a point with coordinates (0, -3) relative to the origin?
  • How would you describe a function that is symmetric about the y-axis?
  • What is the equation of a vertical line passing through x = -2?
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