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