Problem 37 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Find each sum without the use of a number line. $$4+(-7)+(-5)$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The sum of 4, -7, and -5 is -8.

Step 1: Add the positive number and the first negative number

First add the positive number (4) with the first negative number (-7). This is the same as subtracting 7 from 4 and your sign will be negative because your negative number is larger than the positive number: \(4-7=-3\). So the result is -3.

Step 2: Add the result to the second negative number

The result (-3) is then added to the second negative number (-5). This is similar to subtracting 5 from -3, which becomes: \(-3-5=-8\). So the total sum is -8.