Mastering Negative Numbers: A Comprehensive Practice Worksheet
Negative numbers are a fundamental concept in mathematics, and understanding how to work with them is crucial for solving various mathematical problems. In this practice worksheet, we will provide you with a series of exercises to help you master negative numbers.
Adding and Subtracting Negative Numbers
When adding or subtracting negative numbers, it’s essential to remember the following rules:
- When adding two negative numbers, add their absolute values and keep the negative sign.
- When subtracting a negative number from a positive number, add the absolute value of the negative number to the positive number.
- When subtracting a positive number from a negative number, subtract the absolute value of the positive number from the negative number and keep the negative sign.
Let’s practice with some examples:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| -3 + (-5) | -8 |
| 2 - (-4) | 6 |
| -7 - 3 | -10 |
| -9 + 2 | -7 |
Try the following exercises:
- -2 + (-6) =?
- 5 - (-1) =?
- -8 - 2 =?
- -4 + 3 =?
📝 Note: Remember to keep the negative sign when adding two negative numbers.
Multiplying and Dividing Negative Numbers
When multiplying or dividing negative numbers, follow these rules:
- When multiplying two negative numbers, multiply their absolute values and keep the positive sign.
- When multiplying a negative number by a positive number, multiply their absolute values and keep the negative sign.
- When dividing a negative number by a positive number, divide their absolute values and keep the negative sign.
Let’s practice with some examples:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| -4 × -3 | 12 |
| -2 × 5 | -10 |
| 8 ÷ -2 | -4 |
| -9 ÷ -3 | 3 |
Try the following exercises:
- -6 × -2 =?
- 3 × -4 =?
- -10 ÷ 2 =?
- -8 ÷ -4 =?
📝 Note: Remember to keep the positive sign when multiplying two negative numbers.
Mixing Operations with Negative Numbers
Now that you have practiced adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing negative numbers, let’s try mixing these operations.
Try the following exercises:
- -2 + (-3) × 2 =?
- 5 - (-2) ÷ 2 =?
- -8 - 3 × (-2) =?
- -9 + 2 × (-4) =?
📝 Note: Remember to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS) when mixing operations with negative numbers.
In conclusion, mastering negative numbers requires practice and patience. With these exercises, you have taken the first step towards becoming proficient in working with negative numbers. Keep practicing, and soon you will be able to solve complex mathematical problems with ease.
What is the rule for adding two negative numbers?
+When adding two negative numbers, add their absolute values and keep the negative sign.
What is the rule for multiplying a negative number by a positive number?
+When multiplying a negative number by a positive number, multiply their absolute values and keep the negative sign.
What is the order of operations when mixing operations with negative numbers?
+Follow the order of operations (PEMDAS): parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division, and addition and subtraction.
