Question

If cotangent of theta is < 0, in which quadrant(s) could the terminal side of

angle theta lie?
Q2 and Q4
02 and 03
Q3 only
04 only

Answer 1

Q2 and Q4

Explanation:

Trigonometric functions and quadrants:

In x is in the first quadrant, cos(x) > 0 and sin(x) > 0.

In x is in the second quadrant, cos(x) < 0 and sin(x) > 0.

In x is in the third quadrant, cos(x) < 0 and sin(x) < 0.

In x is in the fourth quadrant, cos(x) > 0 and sin(x) < 0.

Cotangent:

The cotangent is the cosine divided by the sine.

Cotangent negative, which quadrants?

It is negative when sine and cosine have opposite signals. So in the second and the fourth quadrant, that is, Q2 and Q4.