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Mathematics: Dividing with negative numbers

DIVIDING WITH NEGATIVE NUMBERS

In this module, you can study how to perform division with negative numbers.

 

The Khan Academy video above shows you how to perform division with negative numbers.

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Rules

Positive ÷  positive = positive answer       e.g. 20  ÷   4  = 5

Positive ÷ negative = negative answer     e.g. 20  ÷  -4  = -5    OR    negative ÷ positive = negative answer    e.g.- 20  ÷  4 = -5 

Negative ÷ negative = positive answer    e.g. -20 ÷ -4  = 5

 

Be careful with using a basic calculator for these types of questions.  

Ideally, use a calculator that has brackets and enter the equations like this:

(-20)  ÷  (-4)  = 

 

Study and practice

HOW TO USE A BASIC CALCULATOR

The video explains how to use basic calculator functions and provides examples.

 

0.00 min      addition (+), subtraction (-), multiply (x), divide (÷)

1.19 min      decimal point
2.43 min      C, CE and backspace
4.19 min      square, square root & fractions
6.17 min      percentage (%)