What is this part of a graph on the axis called?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the terminology used to describe a specific mark on the Y-axis of a graph that indicates a discontinuity, where the value of Y jumps from 0 to 130. Participants explore various names and symbols associated with this mark, including its formal designation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant identifies the mark as a "zigzag" that represents a discontinuity and asks if it has a formal name.
  • Another participant states that there is no formal name for it.
  • Some participants suggest that the mark can be referred to as an axis break, with various symbols like a squiggle or slanted parallel lines being used to indicate it.
  • A participant mentions the term "caesura," suggesting it has a Latin origin meaning a cutting.
  • There is a humorous exchange regarding the name "Tresman mark," with one participant asserting it while another dismisses it as incorrect.
  • Participants note that a search for "graph axis break symbology" yields terms such as axis break, scale break, and caesura.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the formal name of the mark, with no consensus reached on a single term. Multiple competing terms are proposed, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference external sources and definitions, but there is no agreement on a definitive term. The discussion includes humor and informal exchanges that may affect the seriousness of the terminology debate.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying graphing techniques, mathematical representation, or those curious about terminology in data visualization.

iantresman
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TL;DR
What is the zigzag mark on the axis of a graph called?
On this graph on the Y-axis just above the origin is a "zigzag" mark (highlighted with the red circle) which represents a discontinuity as the value of Y jumps from 0 to 130. Does this mark have a formal name?
graph symbol.jpg
 
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No.
 
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An axis break can be indicated using a variety of symbols, a squiggle, a Z, slanted parallel lines, etc. If you Google "graph axis break symbology", you can see a variety of symbols used.
1200px-Y-axis_break.svg.png
 
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iantresman said:
Summary:: What is the zigzag mark on the axis of a graph called?

Does this mark have a formal name?
I believe it is now called the "Tresman mark". :wink:
 
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berkeman said:
I believe it is now called the "Tresman mark". :wink:
Nope. It's direct current resistance.
 
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fresh_42 said:
No.
Oh. This was less funny than I thought it was.

I thought you were saying "It's called the nope".
 
FactChecker said:
Google "graph axis break symbology"
This was a fruitful search.

It yielded axis break and scale break. Also caesura.
 
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