Evaluate each expression. See Example 5. -8 + (-4) (-6) ÷ 12 4 - (-3)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Start by evaluating the expression inside the parentheses: \((-4) \times (-6)\).
2. Step 2: Multiply the numbers inside the parentheses. Remember that multiplying two negative numbers results in a positive number.
3. Step 3: Divide the result from Step 2 by 12, as indicated by the division symbol.
4. Step 4: Add the result from Step 3 to \(-8\), following the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).
5. Step 5: Evaluate the second expression: \(4 - (-3)\). Subtracting a negative number is equivalent to adding the positive of that number.

Key Concepts

Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that dictates the sequence in which mathematical operations should be performed to ensure consistent results. The common acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction) helps remember this order. Following these rules is crucial when evaluating expressions to avoid errors in calculations.

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are values less than zero, represented with a minus sign. They play a significant role in arithmetic operations, particularly in addition and multiplication. Understanding how to handle negative numbers, such as adding or multiplying them, is essential for correctly evaluating expressions that include them.

Division and Multiplication

Division and multiplication are fundamental arithmetic operations that are often performed together in expressions. They are of equal precedence in the order of operations, meaning they should be evaluated from left to right as they appear. Mastery of these operations is necessary for simplifying expressions accurately, especially when they involve negative numbers.