Problem 18

Question

Find each sum without the use of a number line. $$-1.5+(-5.3)$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The sum of -1.5 and -5.3 is -6.8
1Step 1: Identify The Type of Numbers and Operation
The numbers are both negative decimal numbers and the operation to be done is addition.
2Step 2: Apply the Rules for Adding Negative Numbers
The rules for adding negatives numbers states that when adding two negatives numbers, the result is a negative. This follows from the simple logic that negative plus negative amounts to an increased negative value. Hence, instead of direct addition, an absolute addition is done and the negative sign is attached.
3Step 3: Perform the Addition
Ignore the negative signs and perform the addition: \(1.5 + 5.3 = 6.8\) then attach the negative sign to get: \(-6.8\)