Find each sum or difference. See Example 1. 4 - 9

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the operation to be performed: subtraction.
2. Write the expression as a subtraction problem: 4 - 9.
3. Recognize that subtracting a larger number from a smaller number will result in a negative number.
4. Calculate the difference by subtracting 9 from 4.
5. Express the result as a negative number.

Key Concepts

Basic Arithmetic Operations

Understanding basic arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division is essential for solving mathematical expressions. In this case, the question involves subtraction, where the second number is subtracted from the first. Mastery of these operations allows for accurate calculations and is foundational for more complex mathematical concepts.

Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that dictates the sequence in which different mathematical operations should be performed to ensure consistent results. Commonly remembered by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction), this concept is crucial when evaluating expressions that contain multiple operations. In this question, however, only subtraction is involved.

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are values less than zero and are essential in understanding the results of certain arithmetic operations, particularly subtraction. When subtracting a larger number from a smaller one, the result is a negative number. Recognizing how to work with negative numbers is vital for interpreting results correctly in various mathematical contexts.