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Y-coordinate

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Algebra and Trigonometry

Definition

The y-coordinate of a point in a Cartesian coordinate system indicates its vertical position relative to the x-axis. It is the second number in an ordered pair (x, y) and represents how far up or down the point is from the origin.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The y-coordinate is always written second in an ordered pair, following the x-coordinate.
  2. A positive y-coordinate means the point is above the x-axis, while a negative y-coordinate means it is below.
  3. In equations of lines, such as $y = mx + b$, 'y' represents the y-coordinate for any given x value.
  4. When plotting points on a graph, you move vertically according to the y-coordinate after moving horizontally according to the x-coordinate.
  5. The y-intercept of a line occurs when the x-coordinate is zero; this means it is where the line crosses the y-axis.

Review Questions

  • What does a positive y-coordinate indicate about a point's position?
  • How do you determine where a line crosses the y-axis?
  • In which part of an ordered pair can you find the y-coordinate?
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