Question

If a < 0 and b > 0, then which of the following is true?

Select one:
a. a + b > 0
b. a + b < 0
c.
a + b = 0
d.
The relationship between a and b cannot be determined.

Answer 1

d. The relationship between a and b cannot be determined.

Explanation:

Given

`a < 0`

`b > 0`

Required

Which is true

To do this, we test each of the options using assumed values

`a + b > 0`

Let:

`a = -5`
`b= 1`

So:

`-5 + 1 > 0`

`-4 > 0` --- false

`a + b < 0`

Let:

`a = -5`
`b= 7`

So:

`-5 + 7 < 0`

`2 < 0` --- false

`a + b = 0`

Let:

`a = -5`
`b= 7`

So:

`-5 + 7 = 0`

`2 = 0` --- false

Hence, the relationship is not specific and cannot be determined