Convert from Rectangular to Polar Coordinates on the TI-83 Plus

You’re used to seeing points in the xy-plane displayed in the (x, y) rectangular form. But when dealing with polar equations, you view these points in their polar form. To convert (x, y) from rectangular to polar form on the TI-83 Plus graphing calculator:

1. Press [2nd][APPS] to access the Angle menu. (On the TI-83, press [2nd]MATRX].)

2. Press [5] to select the

   

   option.

3. Enter the point (x, y) and press [ENTER] to display r in the

   

   polar form of the point.

   To do so, enter the x-coordinate, press [.], enter the y-coordinate, press [ ) ], and then press [ENTER]. The value of r appears on the right of the screen.

4. Press [2nd][APPS][6] to select the

   

   option from the Angle menu. (On the TI-83, press [2nd][MATRX][6].)

5. Enter the point (x, y) and press [ENTER] to display

   

   in the

   

   polar form of the point.

   

   will be in degrees if the calculator is in Degree mode, or it will be measured in radians if the calculator is in Radian mode.

   

   Converting from rectangular to polar coordinates.