Solve: $-3,482 + (-21) = ?$A. $-3,461$ B. $-3,503$ C. $3,461$ D. $3,503$

When it comes to solving mathematical problems involving negative numbers, it's essential to understand the rules and operations that apply to these numbers. In this article, we'll focus on solving a simple problem that involves adding two negative numbers.

Understanding Negative Numbers

Before we dive into the problem, let's quickly review what negative numbers are and how they work. A negative number is a number that is less than zero. It's denoted by a minus sign (-) and is typically used to represent a debt, a loss, or a decrease in value.

For example, if you have -$100 in your bank account, it means you owe the bank $100. Similarly, if you lose $50 on a bet, your net loss would be -$50.

The Problem: $-3,482 + (-21) = ?$

Now that we have a basic understanding of negative numbers, let's move on to the problem at hand. We're given two negative numbers: $-3,482$ and $-21$. Our task is to add these two numbers together and find the result.

Step 1: Add the Numbers

To add two negative numbers, we simply add their absolute values (ignoring the negative signs) and then attach the negative sign to the result.

In this case, we have:

|-3,482| = 3,482 |-21| = 21

Now, let's add these two numbers together:

3,482 + 21 = 3,503

Step 2: Attach the Negative Sign

Since both numbers are negative, the result will also be negative. We attach the negative sign to the result:

-3,503

The Final Answer

So, the final answer to the problem $-3,482 + (-21) = ?$ is:

-3,503

Why is the Answer Negative?

You might be wondering why the answer is negative. After all, we added two negative numbers together, and you might expect the result to be positive. However, the key to understanding this problem lies in the fact that both numbers are negative.

When we add two negative numbers, we're essentially adding two debts or losses. In this case, we're adding a debt of $3,482 and a debt of $21. The result is a total debt of $3,503.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving negative numbers involves understanding the rules and operations that apply to these numbers. When adding two negative numbers, we add their absolute values and attach the negative sign to the result. In this case, the final answer to the problem $-3,482 + (-21) = ?$ is -3,503.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving problems involving negative numbers, it's essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not understanding the concept of negative numbers: Make sure you understand what negative numbers represent and how they work.
• Not following the rules of addition: Remember to add the absolute values of the numbers and attach the negative sign to the result.
• Not checking your work: Double-check your calculations to ensure you're getting the correct answer.

Practice Problems

If you're looking for more practice problems to help you improve your skills, here are a few to try:

• $-2,145 + (-37) = ?$
• $-1,082 + (-25) = ?$
• $-4,567 + (-93) = ?$

In our previous article, we explored the concept of solving negative numbers and provided a step-by-step guide to solving a simple problem. However, we know that there are many more questions and concerns that you may have. In this article, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions about solving negative numbers.

Q: What is the difference between a negative number and a positive number?

A: A negative number is a number that is less than zero, while a positive number is a number that is greater than zero. For example, -3 is a negative number, while 3 is a positive number.

Q: How do I add two negative numbers together?

A: To add two negative numbers, you simply add their absolute values (ignoring the negative signs) and then attach the negative sign to the result. For example, -3 + (-4) = -7.

Q: How do I subtract a negative number from a positive number?

A: To subtract a negative number from a positive number, you simply add the positive number and the absolute value of the negative number. For example, 5 - (-3) = 5 + 3 = 8.

Q: How do I multiply two negative numbers together?

A: To multiply two negative numbers, you simply multiply their absolute values and then attach the negative sign to the result. For example, -3 × (-4) = 12.

Q: How do I divide a negative number by a positive number?

A: To divide a negative number by a positive number, you simply divide the absolute value of the negative number by the positive number and then attach the negative sign to the result. For example, -12 ÷ 3 = -4.

Q: What is the rule for multiplying and dividing negative numbers?

A: The rule for multiplying and dividing negative numbers is as follows:

• When multiplying two negative numbers, the result is positive.
• When multiplying a negative number and a positive number, the result is negative.
• When dividing a negative number by a positive number, the result is negative.
• When dividing a positive number by a negative number, the result is negative.

Q: What is the difference between a negative number and a debt?

A: A negative number is a mathematical concept that represents a value less than zero. A debt, on the other hand, is a financial obligation to pay a certain amount of money. While a negative number can represent a debt, not all debts are represented by negative numbers.

Q: How do I represent a debt in a mathematical equation?

A: To represent a debt in a mathematical equation, you can use a negative number. For example, if you owe $100, you can represent this as -100.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving negative numbers?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving negative numbers include:

• Not understanding the concept of negative numbers
• Not following the rules of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Not checking your work
• Not using the correct notation (e.g. using a minus sign instead of a negative number)

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving negative numbers can be a challenging but rewarding topic. By understanding the rules and operations that apply to these numbers, you can become more confident and proficient in solving problems involving negative numbers. Remember to avoid common mistakes and to practice regularly to improve your skills.

Additional Resources

If you're looking for more resources to help you learn about solving negative numbers, here are a few suggestions:

• Online tutorials and videos
• Math textbooks and workbooks
• Online math communities and forums
• Math apps and software

We hope this article has been helpful in addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about solving negative numbers. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask.