Problem 27 - Fundamentals of Mathematics

Question

For the following 6 problems, write each expression in words. \(1+(-9)\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

One plus negative nine.

Step 1: Identify the Operation

Look at the mathematical expression given: \(1 + (-9)\). Note that it consists of a number, an addition symbol, and another number in parentheses with a negative sign.

Step 2: Convert Numbers to Words

Convert the numbers into words: '1' becomes 'one', and '-9' becomes 'negative nine'.

Step 3: Convert the Operation to Words

Convert the addition symbol '+' into its word equivalent 'plus'.

Step 4: Combine Words to Form a Sentence

Combine the words for the numbers and the operation together into a single coherent phrase: 'one plus negative nine'.

Key Concepts

Addition Operation

Addition is one of the fundamental operations in mathematics. It involves combining two or more numbers to get a total or sum. The symbol commonly used to denote addition is "+".

When you see an expression like \(1 + (-9)\), the "+" indicates that you need to add the two numbers together. In this context, addition can also involve numbers that are not positive, like negative numbers.

In verbal expressions, the addition operation is described by the word "plus". For instance, if you have the mathematical expression \(3 + 4\), you would say it as "three plus four" when you write it in words.

Here’s a quick reminder:

• "Plus" signifies the addition operation.
• The process involves finding the total of values."

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are numbers less than zero. They are represented with a minus sign "-" in front of them. This makes them distinct from positive numbers, which are greater than zero.

For example, in the expression \((-9)\), -9 is a negative number. It shows that 9 is below zero on the number line. Negative numbers are crucial in many real-world applications, like calculating depths below sea level or financial debts.

Understanding negative numbers is key to solving mathematical problems involving both positive and negative figures:

• They help indicate direction on a number line, with negative numbers going left from zero.
• They are used in operations just like positive numbers but have an opposite effect in addition and subtraction.

Mathematical Expressions

Mathematical expressions are combinations of numbers, variables, and operations. They represent values or relationships between values. Expressions can range from simple ones with just two operands, like \(1+2\), to more complex ones with multiple terms and operations.

In expressions, each number or variable is called a term, and they are connected by operators like "+" or "−".

When writing expressions in words, it's crucial to translate each part of the expression into a comprehensive verbal phrase. For example, with \(1 + (-9)\), you convert it to "one plus negative nine" using these steps:

• Identify each number in the expression.
• Identify the operation symbol and determine its word equivalent.
• Combine these components into a full expression.