Solve the Integer Expression: -5 + 2 Step by Step

Integer Addition with Negative Numbers

5+2= -5+2=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 Find negative five on the number line
00:07 Take 2 jumps in the positive direction (add 2)
00:19 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

5+2= -5+2=

2

Step-by-step solution

If we draw a line that starts at negative five and ends at 5

We will go from the point negative five two steps forward (+2) we will arrive at the number negative 3.

3

Final Answer

3 -3

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Adding positive to negative means moving right on number line
  • Technique: Start at -5, move 2 steps right to reach -3
  • Check: Verify -5 + 2 = -3 using number line or counting ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Confusing addition with subtraction of negative numbers
    Don't think -5 + 2 means subtract 2 from 5 to get -7! This mixes up the operation and gives the wrong sign. Always remember that adding a positive number means moving right on the number line, making the result less negative.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 74+32+6+4+4=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why isn't the answer -7?

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Because we're adding 2, not subtracting it! When you add a positive number to a negative number, you move toward zero on the number line, making the result less negative.

How do I remember which direction to move on the number line?

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Adding always means moving right, and subtracting means moving left. So -5 + 2 means start at -5 and move 2 steps to the right!

What if the positive number is bigger than the negative number?

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Great question! If you had 3+5 -3 + 5 , you'd start at -3, move 5 steps right, and end up at positive 2. The result changes from negative to positive!

Can I use my fingers to solve this?

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Absolutely! Hold up 5 fingers for the deficit of -5, then put down 2 fingers (adding 2). You'll have 3 fingers still up, representing -3.

Is there a faster way than using the number line?

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Yes! Think of it as: 5 - 2 = 3, but keep the negative sign from the larger number. So -5 + 2 = -3. The number line helps you understand why this works!

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