The focus of this unit is understanding geometry using positions of points in a Cartesian coordinate system. The study of the relationship between algebra and geometry was pioneered by the French mathematician and philosopher René Descartes. In fact, the Cartesian coordinate system is named after him. The study of geometry that uses coordinates in this manner is called analytical geometry. How does this approach differ from other approaches to geometry that you have used or seen? Based on your experiences so far, which approach to geometry do you prefer? Why? Which approach is easier to extend beyond two dimensions? What are some situations in which one approach to geometry would prove more beneficial than the other? Describe the situation and why you think one approach is more applicable.