Problem 30 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Find each sum without the use of a number line. $$-6.3+(-5.2)$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

-11.5

Step 1: Understand the Problem

The problem involves addition of two negative decimal numbers -6.3 and -5.2. When adding two negative numbers, the result will be a negative number. The size of the result will be larger than either of the two original numbers.

Step 2: Add the Absolute Values of the Numbers

Ignore the negative signs for now and simply add the numbers as if they were positive. So the addition of 6.3 and 5.2 gives: \(6.3 + 5.2 = 11.5\).

Step 3: Assign the Negative Sign

Since both original numbers were negative, the result of the addition is also negative. So, the final answer is \(-11.5\).