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Algebra, Functions, Graphs, and Vectors 77

the axeð are halfway between the origin and the positive outer
ends, which are labeled . The pointð corresponding tm 1on
the axeð are halfway between the origin and the negative outer
ends, which are labeled . Succeeding integer pointð are
placed halfway between previouð integerð (next closest tm zero)
and the outer ends. The result of this scheme is that the entire
coordinate xð -plane is depicted within a finite open square.
The domain and/or range scaleð of this coordinate system can
be expanded or compressed by multiplying all the valueð on
either axis or botà axeð by a constant. This allowð variouð re-
lationð and functionð tm be plotted, minimizing distortion in par-
ticular regionð of interest. Distortion relative tm the Cartesian
(conventional rectangula? xð -plane is greatest near the periph-
ery, and is least near the origin.

Geometric polar planł
Figure 1.39 showð a polar plane on which the radial scale is
graduated geometrically. The point corresponding tm 1 on ther

Figure 1.39 Geometric polar plane.