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AXIS

Axis

Definition Of Axis

An Axis is a line about which a figure is drawn, measured, rotated, etc.

The horizontal line and the vertical line on a coordinate plane are known as the X-axis and the Y-axis respectively.

More About Axis

The plural of axis is axes.
In a three-dimensional coordinate plane X, Y, and Z are the three axes.

Examples of Axis

example of  Axis

Video Examples: CXC Math: Transformational Geometry Part 2A, Reflection In The x-axis. CSEC CXC Maths

Solved Example on Axis

Ques: Identify the axis on which the book is located.

example of  Axis

Choices:

A. X-axis
B. Y-axis
C. Origin
D. Both X and Y-axis
Correct Answer: B

Solution:

Step 1: The horizontal line and the vertical line on a coordinate plane are known as the X-axis and the Y-axis respectively.
Step 2: The book is placed on the vertical line. 
Step 3: So, the book is located on Y-axis 

Quick Summary

  • An axis is a line used for reference in a coordinate system.
  • The X-axis is horizontal, and the Y-axis is vertical in 2D.
  • The plural of axis is axes.
  • In 3D, there are X, Y, and Z axes.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Confusing the X and Y axes.
  • Forgetting that the Z-axis represents depth in 3D.
  • Incorrectly plotting points relative to the axes.

🌍 Real-World Uses

  • The axle of a car, which is the axis around which the wheels rotate, allowing for movement.
  • The Earth's axis of rotation, which determines day and night and contributes to seasons.
  • In medical imaging (MRI or CT scans), axes are used to define the orientation and location of slices through the body.

🔗 Related Links

🍎 Teacher Insights

Use physical demonstrations to show the relationship between axes and points in space. Emphasize the order of coordinates (x, y, z) to avoid confusion.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Basic Geometry
  • Number Lines

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: Which axis is horizontal in a 2D coordinate plane?

Q2: What is the plural of axis?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the origin?
A: The origin is the point where the axes intersect. In 2D, it's the point (0, 0).

Q: Why are axes important?
A: Axes provide a framework for describing locations and relationships in space, essential for graphing and spatial reasoning.

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