6 minus negative 2

Guri Bee

less than a minute read

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21-10-2024

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6 Minus Negative 2: Demystifying Double Negatives

Have you ever stumbled upon a math problem like "6 minus negative 2" and found yourself scratching your head? This seemingly simple equation can be tricky due to the presence of a double negative. But fear not! Understanding the concept of double negatives is easier than you think.

The Question:

"6 minus negative 2" can be written mathematically as: 6 - (-2)

The Answer:

The answer is 8.

Why?

The key to solving this lies in understanding that subtracting a negative number is the same as adding its positive counterpart.

Here's a breakdown:

• Subtraction: The minus sign in the equation signifies subtraction.
• Negative Sign: The parentheses around the -2 indicate that we're subtracting a negative number.
• Double Negative: When we subtract a negative number, it effectively becomes addition.

Think of it like this:

Imagine you have 6 apples. Then, someone "takes away" (-2) negative apples. This means they actually give you two more apples.

In simpler terms:

6 - (-2) = 6 + 2 = 8

Practical Examples:

• Temperature: If the temperature is -2 degrees Celsius and it rises by 6 degrees, the new temperature would be 6 - (-2) = 8 degrees Celsius.
• Debt: If you owe $2 and someone forgives your debt (takes away the negative amount), you essentially gain $2.

Conclusion:

Double negatives in math might seem confusing at first, but with a little understanding, they become quite simple. Remember, subtracting a negative is the same as adding its positive counterpart. This fundamental principle can help you navigate through various mathematical problems and even real-life situations.