Help Understanding 3D Coordinates

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the signs of coordinates in a 3D Cartesian coordinate system. Participants are exploring how to determine when the x, y, and z coordinates are positive or negative, particularly in relation to graphical representations and definitions of axes.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the positivity and negativity of coordinates in a 3D graph and seeks clarification.
  • Another participant suggests that the clarity of axes definitions is the responsibility of the author of the graph or chart.
  • A participant proposes a simple analogy using a flat map to illustrate positive directions for x, y, and z coordinates, suggesting that East is positive x, North is positive y, and up is positive z.
  • A later post reiterates the initial confusion and requests a clearer question or a better graphical representation to facilitate understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the original question, as there is ongoing confusion and requests for clarification regarding the coordinate system.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of the original diagram and the definitions of the axes, which may affect participants' understanding. The discussion also highlights the importance of context in defining positive and negative directions.

Speedracer72
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Ok, so I am having help knowing when x,y,z are positive or negative. My graph looks something similar to this..

-------------z---------x
-------y

---------------------y

---x

--------------z

I am really confused as to when a location in all 3 axes is negative or positive in all x,y,z.
 
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Your diagram doesn't really explain what you are getting at. You might want to elaborate?
 
Well, i may not understand the question either.
See if this is on track -

it's the duty of the guy who's writing the book or article or drawing the chart to define his axes.

Let's start simple

IF you look at a map flat on your table,
most folks would agree East is positive direction in X,
and North is positive direction in Y,
and UP out of the map is positive direction in Z.

is that any help ??
 
Speedracer72 said:
Ok, so I am having help knowing when x,y,z are positive or negative. My graph looks something similar to this..

-------------z---------x
-------y

---------------------y

---x

--------------z

I am really confused as to when a location in all 3 axes is negative or positive in all x,y,z.

Welcome to the PF.

Maybe this is a better picture to start with. Can you use this picture to state your question a little more clearly?

http://www.mathworks.com/help/toolbox/phased/ug/rh_coordinate.gif
http://www.mathworks.com/help/toolbox/phased/ug/rh_coordinate.gif
 
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