Find each sum or difference. See Example 1.-12.31 - (-2.13)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the operation: The problem involves subtraction of a negative number, which is equivalent to addition.
2. Rewrite the expression: Convert the subtraction of a negative number into addition. So, \(-12.31 - (-2.13)\) becomes \(-12.31 + 2.13\).
3. Align the numbers: Write the numbers vertically, aligning the decimal points to ensure accurate addition.
4. Perform the addition: Add the numbers as you would with any decimal addition, starting from the rightmost digit and moving to the left.
5. Check your work: Ensure that the decimal point in the result is correctly placed and that the addition was performed accurately.

Key Concepts

Addition and Subtraction of Real Numbers

Understanding how to add and subtract real numbers is fundamental in arithmetic. When subtracting a negative number, it is equivalent to adding its positive counterpart. For example, in the expression -12.31 - (-2.13), the operation simplifies to -12.31 + 2.13, which requires careful attention to the signs of the numbers involved.

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are values less than zero and are represented with a minus sign. They play a crucial role in arithmetic operations, especially in subtraction. Recognizing how negative numbers interact with positive numbers is essential for correctly performing calculations, such as determining the result of subtracting a negative value.

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. In this case, while the expression involves only addition and subtraction, understanding that these operations are performed from left to right is important for accurately solving the problem.