Final answer:
The Cartesian Coordinate System is a mathematical concept that combines geometry and algebra. Devised by Rene Descartes, this system allows for labeling points on a plane with the x and y coordinates and can be extended to three dimensions by adding a z coordinate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The "Cartesian" Coordinate System created by Rene Descartes is the combination of geometry and algebra. This system is essential to the field of mathematics as it provides a way to systematically label each point on a plane by a pair of numbers, typically referred to as the x and y coordinates. An extension to this system is the inclusion of a z coordinate, allowing for three-dimensional space labeling.
Rene Descartes is credited with the development of what's known as Cartesian geometry, which laid the foundation for the modern graph system. His contributions to the field melded geometric concepts with algebraic formulations, making it possible to visualize equations as graphs and thereby greatly enhancing our ability to analyze and interpret mathematical relationships.
In practice, the Cartesian coordinate system uses two straight lines or axes that are perpendicular to each other. These axes intersect at a point called the 'origin.' Each axis is marked with distances from the origin, with distances to the right and above being positive, and those to the left and below being negative. This system can be used not only on a flat plane for creating graphs but also for mapping geographical locations and understanding vectors in physics.