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Add Negative Numbers Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Adding negative numbers is a fundamental math operation that follows specific rules. This calculator helps you add negative numbers quickly and accurately. Learn how to add negative numbers with examples, formulas, and a step-by-step guide.

How to Add Negative Numbers

Adding negative numbers follows the same rules as adding positive numbers. The key is to remember that a negative sign before a number indicates that the number is less than zero on the number line.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Identify the numbers you want to add. For example, -3 and -5.
  2. Remove the negative signs temporarily. Now you have 3 and 5.
  3. Add the absolute values of the numbers: 3 + 5 = 8.
  4. Apply the negative sign to the result: -8.

When adding two negative numbers, the result is always negative. For example, -3 + (-5) = -8.

Formula

The formula for adding two negative numbers is straightforward:

If you have two negative numbers, -a and -b, their sum is calculated as:

-a + (-b) = -(a + b)

This means you first add the absolute values of the numbers and then apply the negative sign to the result.

Examples

Here are some examples of adding negative numbers:

Example 1

Add -4 and -6:

  1. Remove the negative signs: 4 and 6.
  2. Add the numbers: 4 + 6 = 10.
  3. Apply the negative sign: -10.

Result: -4 + (-6) = -10

Example 2

Add -7 and -3:

  1. Remove the negative signs: 7 and 3.
  2. Add the numbers: 7 + 3 = 10.
  3. Apply the negative sign: -10.

Result: -7 + (-3) = -10

FAQ

What is the rule for adding negative numbers?

When adding two negative numbers, you add their absolute values and then apply the negative sign to the result. For example, -3 + (-5) = -8.

Can you add a negative and a positive number?

Yes, you can add a negative and a positive number. Subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger one and apply the sign of the number with the larger absolute value. For example, -5 + 3 = -2.

What happens when you add two negative numbers?

When you add two negative numbers, the result is always negative. The absolute values of the numbers are added together, and the negative sign is applied to the sum. For example, -4 + (-6) = -10.