X-coordinate

Definition

The x-coordinate is the first value in an ordered pair $(x, y)$ representing a point's horizontal position on the Cartesian plane. It indicates how far left or right the point is from the origin (0, 0).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The x-coordinate is always written first in an ordered pair.
2. A positive x-coordinate indicates a position to the right of the origin.
3. A negative x-coordinate indicates a position to the left of the origin.
4. The x-axis is horizontal and intersects with the y-axis at the origin.
5. In equations of vertical lines, all points share the same x-coordinate.

Review Questions

• What does a negative x-coordinate signify about a point's location?
• If you have an ordered pair (3, -2), what is the value of its x-coordinate?
• How does the x-coordinate change if you move a point horizontally to the right?

Related terms

y-coordinate:

The second value in an ordered pair $(x, y)$ that represents a point's vertical position on the Cartesian plane.

Origin:

The point $(0, 0)$ where the x-axis and y-axis intersect on the Cartesian plane.

Cartesian Plane: A two-dimensional coordinate system defined by a horizontal axis (x-axis) and a vertical axis (y-axis).