The following produces a plot with the axes labeled correctly:
> with(plots): > spacecurve([t*cos(t), 0, t], t=0..4*Pi, axes=boxed, labels=["x","y","z"]);
However, changing the axes to normal produces a plot with the labels reversed on the x- and y-axes:
> spacecurve([t*cos(t), 0, t], t=0..4*Pi, axes=normal, labels=["x","y","z"]);
Am I missing something?
Having taken a look (using R5), I think it is just bad positioning that makes the labels appear to be reversed. By dragging the plot around I can make the labels jump all over the place. I think you have just hit on an example where the automatic positioning algorithm does not work too well.
Yes, to some extent. The "y" really is labelling the y axis and the "x" the x axis, although the "y" may appear to be closer to the x axis. The placement of axis labels is rather tricky, and unfortunately Maple still hasn’t got it right. In particular, in "normal" axes with the bounds symmetrical about 0 or nearly so it’s a bad idea to have the label in the middle of the axis.