Solve (-2)×(-4): Step-by-Step Integer Multiplication

Integer Multiplication with Negative Signs

Determine the correct answer for the following exercise:

(2)(4)= (-2)\cdot(-4)=

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Step-by-step video solution

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00:00 Solve
00:07 Negative times negative is always positive
00:13 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

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1

Understand the problem

Determine the correct answer for the following exercise:

(2)(4)= (-2)\cdot(-4)=

2

Step-by-step solution

Let's remember the rule:

(x)×(x)=+x (-x)\times(-x)=+x

Therefore, the sign of the exercise result will be positive:

2×4=+8 -2\times-4=+8

3

Final Answer

8 8

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Negative times negative always equals positive result
  • Technique: (2)×(4)=+(2×4)=+8 (-2) \times (-4) = +(2 \times 4) = +8
  • Check: Remember the sign rule: same signs multiply to positive ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Keeping negative sign in final answer
    Don't calculate (-2) × (-4) = -8! This ignores the fundamental rule that multiplying two negatives gives a positive result. Always remember: negative × negative = positive, so the answer must be +8.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

What will be the sign of the result of the next exercise?

\( (-2)\cdot(-4)= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why does negative times negative equal positive?

+

Think of it as "opposite of opposite"! When you multiply by -1, you flip the sign. Multiplying by -4 means flipping the sign 4 times. Since -2 flipped 4 times brings you back to positive, the result is +8.

How can I remember the sign rules for multiplication?

+

Use this simple pattern:

  • Same signs (+ × + or - × -) = Positive
  • Different signs (+ × - or - × +) = Negative

Just like in real life: "same attracts, different repels!"

What if I have more than two negative numbers?

+

Count the negative signs! An even number of negatives gives a positive result, an odd number gives negative. For example: (2)×(3)×(1) (-2) \times (-3) \times (-1) has 3 negatives (odd), so the result is negative.

Is there a difference between (-2) and -2?

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Not really! The parentheses in (-2) just make it clear that the negative sign belongs to the 2. Both represent the same number: negative two.

How do I check my answer?

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Ask yourself: "Am I multiplying two numbers with the same sign?" Since both -2 and -4 are negative (same sign), your answer must be positive. Then calculate: 2×4=8 2 \times 4 = 8 , so the final answer is +8.

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