Doing Math with Python

2Visualizing Data with Graphs

In this chapter, you’ll learn a powerful way to present numerical data: by drawing graphs with Python. We’ll start by discussing the number line and the Cartesian plane. Next, we’ll learn about the powerful plotting library matplotlib and how we can use it to create graphs. We’ll then explore how to make graphs that present data clearly and intuitively. Finally, we’ll use graphs to explore Newton’s law of universal gravitation and projectile motion. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Cartesian Coordinate Plane

Consider a number line, like the one shown in Figure 2-1. Integers from –3 to 3 are marked on the line, ...