A and B are positive numbers.
Therefore, A - B results in...?
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A and B are positive numbers.
Therefore, A - B results in...?
Let's define the two numbers as 1 and 2.
Now let's place them in an exercise:
2-1=1
The result is positive!
Now let's define the numbers in reverse as 2 and 1.
Let's place an equal exercise and see:
1-2=-1
The result is negative!
We can see that the solution of the exercise depends on the absolute value of the numbers, and which one is greater than the other,
Even if both numbers are positive, the subtraction operation between them can lead to a negative result.
Impossible to know
What will be the sign of the result of the next exercise?
\( (-2)\cdot(-4)= \)
Great question! The sign of the result depends on which number is bigger. Think of it like this: if you have 3 dollars and spend 5 dollars, you owe 2 dollars (negative result)!
You cannot predict the sign without knowing which number is larger. That's exactly why the answer is "Impossible to know" - we need more information!
If A = B, then A - B = 0. But since we don't know if they're equal or which is larger, we still cannot determine the result without more information.
Absolutely! Try these:
All three outcomes are possible with positive numbers!
No! Multiplication of two positive numbers is always positive. Subtraction is different because you're finding the difference between numbers, not combining them.
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