The graph of the equation xy = k,

[boomgoesthegmat]

The graph of the equation xy = k, where k < 0, lies in which two of the quadrants shown above?

A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and III
D) II and IV
E) III and IV

OA: D

[OptimusPrep]

The graph of the equation xy = k, where k < 0, lies in which two of the quadrants shown above?

A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and III
D) II and IV
E) III and IV

OA: D

We are given that xy = -ve. This means x and y will have different signs.

Hence when x > 0, y < 0 {Quadrant IV}
And when x < 0, y > 0 {Quadrant II}

Correct Option: D

[[email protected]]

Hi All,

We're told that the graph of the equation (X)(Y) = K, where K < 0. We're asked for the two quadrants in which that graph would lie. This question can be solved by TESTing VALUES.

We're told that K is NEGATIVE. Let's TEST K = -2
(X)(Y) = -2

There are LOTS of different 'pairs' of values for X and Y that would fit this equation (since X and Y aren't necessarily integers). Here are two co-ordinates that are possible:
(X, Y)
(2, -1) --> this is in Quadrant 4
(-2, 1) --> this is in Quadrant 2

Final Answer: D

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich