8.2.2 – Graphing Polar Points, Converting Equations

To graph polar coordinates, we will do it as a combination of: – 1) Graphing cartesian coordinates – 2) Using the unit circle

The Polar Plane A series of circles, with increasing radii Each radius, for our purposes, is an increase of one unit Notice angle measures

The Polar Plane To plot on the polar plane 1) Find the radius, given by r, in the ordered pair, (r, ϴ) 2) Find angle given by ϴ, in the ordered pair (r, ϴ)

Example. Plot the polar point (3, π/2)

Example. Plot the polar point (1, 4π/3)

Example. Plot the polar point (2, 3π/4)

Negative Radius We really do not have such a thing as a “negative radius” in a real life context – Distance; should be positive In the Polar coordinate plane, though, a negative radius may occur The radius, -r, is acts as a 180 degree reflection

Example. Plot the polar point (-1, 11π/6)

Assignment Pg all Plot 13 and 14 which you converted last night to polar points