What does the term 'ordinate' refer to in a graph?

In the context of a graph, the term 'ordinate' specifically refers to the Y-axis. This axis typically represents the dependent variable in a set of data, where values are plotted vertically. The concept stems from Cartesian coordinates, where the ordinate (Y) is paired with the abscissa (X), which represents the horizontal axis.

Understanding the role of the ordinate is crucial since it indicates how different values of the dependent variable change in relation to the independent variable plotted along the X-axis. This distinction is essential in interpreting graphs accurately, as it aids in the analysis of data trends and relationships.

In contrast, the X-axis represents the independent variable, while data points are the specific coordinates plotted on the graph, and the title conveys the subject matter of the graph without defining the axes.