Consider four points a, b, c, and d on a number line arranged in increasing order. If the product abcd is less than zero, which of the following must be a positive value?
1) ab
2) bc
3) cd

Answer Choices

Correct answer marked below

1 only

2 only

Correct

3 only

1 and 3 only

2 and 3 only

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Explanation

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Official Explanation

Official

On the number line, we have four points a, b, c, and d in ascending order. Given that the product abcd is less than zero, it indicates that there is an odd number of negative values among the points. This means either one or three of the points must be negative. If we…

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Comments

ArinFeb 11, 2025

Great question!

JaseemDec 15, 2024

good question

SaurabhSep 3, 2024

Thanks

What this question tests

What it tests

Your ability to solve and combine linear inequalities and reason about ranges of values.

Common trap

Failing to flip the inequality sign when multiplying or dividing by a negative, or missing an inclusive/exclusive endpoint.

Consider four points a, b, c, and d on a number line arranged in increasing order. If the product abcd is less than zero, which of the following must be a positive value? 1) ab 2) bc 3) cd