Problem 3

Question

Use the number line to complete this statement: \(-2-5=?\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The answer is -7.
1Step 1: Identify Starting Point on Number Line
Start at -2 on the number line. This is the position you are subtracting from.
2Step 2: Perform Subtraction
Subtract 5 from -2 by moving 5 units to the left on the number line since we're dealing with a subtraction operation.
3Step 3: Identify Final Point on Number Line
The final position on the number line is -7. This is the result of the subtraction.

Key Concepts

number linenegative numbersalgebraic operations
number line
A number line is a useful tool for visualizing and solving basic mathematical operations like addition and subtraction. Imagine a horizontal line with numbers placed along it at regular intervals. Zero is usually in the center. Positive numbers are to the right of zero and negative numbers are to the left.

By moving along the number line, we can perform operations like addition or subtraction easily. For example, to solve the problem \(-2 - 5\), we start at \(-2\) on the number line. Each move leftwards subtracts a unit. So, subtracting five is like moving five steps left from \(-2\). This will land you on \(-7\).

The number line helps us understand the direction and distance moved during operations. It also makes it easier to visualize how subtraction moves you in the opposite direction of addition. Always remember, moving left indicates subtraction.
negative numbers
Negative numbers are an essential part of mathematics, representing values less than zero. They have peculiar properties that are crucial for solving equations, especially in integer operations.

Consider negative numbers as points on a number line to the left of zero. They are used in various scenarios, like measuring loss, debt, or temperatures below freezing.

When you subtract a positive number from a negative number, you move even further left on the number line. For example, solving \(-2 - 5\) involves starting at \(-2\) and moving 5 steps left. The result is \(-7\), a deeper negative value.

Always take careful note of the operation signs. Negative numbers can change the direction of a problem, making it essential to understand their role in algebraic operations.
algebraic operations
Algebraic operations involve the manipulation of numbers and variables. Two main operations are addition and subtraction. Both can be executed using positive and negative numbers.

Subtraction involves finding the difference between numbers. For instance, in \(-2 - 5\), you are subtracting 5 from \(-2\). On a number line, this means moving 5 units to the left of \(-2\), which gives \(-7\).

This operation highlights how subtraction with negative numbers works. The more negative a result, the further left it is on a number line.

Understanding algebraic operations is key to solving more complex mathematical problems. Recognizing how integers and negative numbers interact during these operations is crucial for accurate calculations.