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Reflect (0, 3) in the x-axis

Step by step, with the reason for every step · Reflections · Geometry

Step by step

The question

Question: reflect the point P(0, 3) in the x-axis.

P = (0, 3)
= in the x-axis

1 Draw the shape

Put the point on the grid.

2 Draw the mirror line

The mirror line is the x-axis.

Reflecting flips the shape over the line, like a mirror.

Each point lands just as far away, on the other side.

reflection = flip

3 Reflect each point

From P, count straight to the mirror line: 3.

Then count 3 more on the other side.

We call the new point P prime.

The little mark means: the new P.

P is 3 above the x-axis.

Its image is 3 below it.

Its x stays 0.

So P' is (0, −3).

P(0, 3) → P'(0, −3)

Careful!

The x-axis is flat.

The flip goes up or down, so y changes.

x stays.

Careful: not P'(0, 3) ✗

4 The new point

So the image is P'(0, −3).

P' = (0, −3)

5 Check

Let's check with the rule for the x-axis: x stays the same, y changes sign.

x-axis: (x, y) → (x, −y)

It gives the same points.

Right!

P(0, 3) → P'(0, −3)

Let's look back.

First: draw the shape.

Then: draw the mirror line.

Then: reflect each point.

Then: the new point.

Last: check.

Answer
P' = (0, −3)

Your turn

Try this one yourself, then check:

P(1, 2): in the x-axis
Show the answer
P' = (1, −2)

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