When subtracting, the number moves to the left (negative direction).
When adding, the number moves to the right (positive direction).
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Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding a positive number. Also, adding a negative number is the same as subtracting a positive number. -7 + (-5) = -7 - 5 = -12 -7 - (-5) = -7 + 5 = -2
You are more likely to make a mistake.
Because of the definition of addition and subtraction. When looking at a real number line: when you add you move to the left or up, when you add the opposite of a number you move in the opposite direction.
Integers include positive whole numbers, negative whole numbers, and zero.The "set of all integers" is often shown like this:Integers = {… -5, -4, -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …} The dots at each end of the set mean that you can keep counting in either direction. The set can also be shown as a number line:The arrows on each end of the number line mean that you can keep counting in either direction.Adding and Subtracting IntegersLooking at a number line can help you when you need to add or subtract integers.Whether you are adding or subtracting two integers, start by using the number line to find the first number. Put your finger on it. Let's say the first number is 3.Then, if you are adding a positive number,move your finger to the right as many places as the value of that number. For example, if you are adding 4, move your finger 4 places to the right. 3 + 4 = 7If you are adding a negative number, move your finger to the left as many places as the value of that number. For example, if you are adding -4, move your finger 4 places to the left. 3 + -4 = -1If you are subtracting a positive number, move your finger to the left as many places as the value of that number. For example, if you are subtracting 4, move your finger 4 places to the left. 3 - 4 = -1If you are subtracting a negative number, move your finger to the right as many places as the value of that number. For example, if you are subtracting -4, move your finger 4 places to the right. 3 - -4 = 7Here are two rules to remember:Adding a negative number is just like subtracting a positive number. 3 + -4 = 3 - 4Subtracting a negative number is just like adding a positive number. The two negatives cancel out each other. 3 + 4 = 3 - -4
Well, let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a number line. If we start at 2 and move 5 units to the left, we end up at -3. Remember, on a number line, moving to the right means adding and moving to the left means subtracting. Just a happy little journey on the number line!