Question

Paul says that x/y can result in either a positive or negative quotientIs paul correct? Explain why or why not and use examples to support your answer.

Answer 1

The paul is correct as the sign of quotient depends upon divisor as well as upon dividend.

Consider the example,

`(8)/(2)`

Here, numerator and denominator both are positive so quotient is also positive.

`(8)/(2)=4`

Now consider the example,

`(-8)/(4)`

Here, numerator is negtaive and denominator is positive so the quotient is negative.

`(-8)/(4)=-2`

Now, consider the example,

`(8)/(-4)`

Here numerator is positive but denominator is negative so quotient is negative.

`(8)/(-4)=-2`

Thus, the quotient is negative or positive which depend upon numerator and denominator. So Paul is correct.