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(-3)(-7)

less than a minute read Jun 16, 2024
(-3)(-7)

Multiplying Negative Numbers: (-3)(-7)

When multiplying two negative numbers, the result is always positive. Let's break down why:

The Concept of Multiplication

Multiplication can be thought of as repeated addition. For example, 3 x 4 means adding 3 to itself 4 times: 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12.

The Role of Negative Signs

A negative sign indicates the opposite of a number. For example, -3 is the opposite of 3.

Applying the Concepts

  • (-3)(-7) means adding -3 to itself 7 times.
  • This can be visualized as: -3 + (-3) + (-3) + (-3) + (-3) + (-3) + (-3)
  • Adding a negative number repeatedly is the same as subtracting that number. So, we have: 0 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3 - 3
  • This results in 21.

Conclusion

Therefore, (-3)(-7) equals 21. Multiplying two negative numbers always results in a positive number.

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