Select the best answer for the question.
16. Use an inequality symbol $(<,>,=, \leq)$ to compare $-3+7$ $-10-2$
A. $\leq$
B. <
C. =
D. >
Answer (1)
Calculate − 3 + 7 , which equals 4 .
Calculate − 10 − 2 , which equals − 12 .
Compare the two results: -12"> 4 > − 12 .
The correct inequality symbol is }"> > .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We need to compare the values of the two expressions: − 3 + 7 and − 10 − 2 .
Calculating the First Expression First, let's calculate the value of the expression − 3 + 7 . The result is 4 .
Calculating the Second Expression Next, let's calculate the value of the expression − 10 − 2 . The result is − 12 .
Comparing the Values Now, we compare the two values: 4 and − 12 . Since 4 is greater than − 12 , the correct inequality symbol is "> > .
Examples
Imagine you're checking your bank account. You deposited $7 but had an earlier debt of $3, resulting in a net gain of $4. Separately, you had an initial debt of $10 and then spent an additional $2, resulting in a total debt of $12. Comparing the two scenarios, having $4 is better than owing $12, illustrating that 4 > -12. This simple comparison helps manage finances and understand relative gains and losses.
