Chapter 22 – Cartesian System of Rectangular Coordinates


Overview

This Class 11 chapter provides a foundational understanding of the Cartesian coordinate system, which forms the basis of coordinate geometry. Students learn how algebra and geometry come together to represent points, lines, and figures on a plane.

Key Concepts

  • Coordinates of a point (x, y)

  • Distance between two points

  • Section formula

  • Midpoint formula

  • Centroid of a triangle

Cartesian System of Rectangular Coordinates

The Cartesian System of Rectangular Coordinates is a fundamental concept in coordinate geometry that helps represent the position of points on a plane. It is based on two perpendicular number lines called the x-axis and y-axis, which intersect at a point known as the origin. Every point on the plane is identified by a pair of numbers called coordinates, written as x and y, which show the distance of the point from both axes.

In RD Sharma Class 11 Chapter 22, students learn how to locate points, find distances between them, and determine midpoints and section points using coordinate geometry principles. The chapter also introduces important formulas such as the distance formula, section formula, and midpoint formula. The Cartesian system allows algebra and geometry to work together, making it possible to represent geometric shapes like lines, circles, and triangles using equations. It forms the base for advanced topics like straight lines, circles, and conic sections. Understanding the Cartesian coordinate system improves analytical thinking and helps students visualize geometric relationships. It is widely used in physics, engineering, computer graphics, and data analysis to describe motion, position, and design in a clear and mathematical way.

Applications

Understanding the Cartesian plane is vital in physics, engineering, and real-world geometry problems. Students learn plotting and interpreting graphical data using coordinate points.

RD Sharma Solutions

RD Sharma Class 11 Mathematics Solutions include graphical representation and algebraic approach to each problem. Each step is clearly illustrated to strengthen visualization and analytical thinking.

Conclusion

This chapter is an essential foundation for later topics like Straight Lines, Circles, and Conic Sections.