FTCE General Knowledge Math Practice Test

What is defined as a plane with a chosen origin and two perpendicular lines?

1. Coordinate plane

2. Congruent plane

3. Vector plane

4. Affine plane

The correct answer is: Coordinate plane

The concept described—a plane with a chosen origin and two perpendicular lines—accurately represents a coordinate plane. This type of plane is foundational in mathematics, particularly in geometry and algebra. In a coordinate plane, the two perpendicular lines are typically referred to as the x-axis and y-axis, which intersect at the origin point (0, 0). This system allows for the representation of points, lines, and shapes in a two-dimensional space using ordered pairs of numbers that correspond to their positions regarding the axes. The other options refer to different mathematical ideas: a congruent plane is not a standard term in mathematics, vector planes involve directional quantities and often describe transformations or movements in space, while an affine plane generally addresses properties related to points and lines without the necessity of an origin or defined distances. Thus, the coordinate plane is distinct in its structure and application, making it the correct choice for the given definition.