If x^{2}+y^{2}+z^{2}=3, where x, y and z are integers, then how many values can (xy+yz+zx) have?

  1. A. One
  2. B. Two
  3. C. Three
  4. D. Four

Correct Answer: B. Two

Explanation

For x^2+y^2+z^2=3 with integers, the variables must be \pm 1. The possible sets are (\pm 1, \pm 1, \pm 1). If all three have the same sign, xy+yz+zx = 3. If one has a different sign, xy+yz+zx = -1. Thus, there are exactly two values.

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