Quadrants

Definition of Quadrants

  • The x- and y- axes divide the coordinate plane into four regions. These regions are called the quadrants.             

                                                     

Examples of Quadrants

  • The figure below shows the four quadrants of the coordinate plane. 

Solved Example on Quadrants

Identify the quadrants in which the points (- 4, 2) and (3, - 8) are located.   

Choices:

A. first and second quadrants respectively

B. second and third quadrants respectively

C. second and fourth quadrants respectively

D. only the second quadrant

Correct Answer: C

Solution:

Step 1: Start at the origin.

Step 2: Move 4 units to the left from the y-axis.

Step 3: Then move 2 units above the x-axis.

Step 4: The point (- 4, 2) is in the second quadrant.

Step 5: Move 3 units to the right from the origin on the x-axis.

Step 6: Then move 8 units below the x-axis.

Step 7: The point (3, - 8) is in the fourth quadrant.

Step 8: The points (- 4, 2) and (3, - 8) are in the second and fourth quadrants respectively.

                                                   

Related Terms for Quadrants

  • x-axis
  • y-axis
  • Coordinate Plane
 

Additional Links for Quadrants