Final answer:
The correct equation for finding a number that adds to -5 to produce -15 is -5 + n = -15. Solving this equation gives the result n = -10, which means the number we are seeking is -10.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve the equation to find the number when the sum of -5 and a number is -15, you need to set up the equation and solve for the unknown number (n). This can be represented as:
-5 + n = -15
To find the value of n, you would add 5 to both sides of the equation to isolate n:
-5 + n + 5 = -15 + 5
This simplifies to:
n = -10
So the number that, when added to -5, gives -15 is -10. Therefore, the correct answer is option a. -5 + n = -15; -10.
It's important to use the proper rules of addition and subtraction of positive and negative numbers. For example, when two numbers with opposite signs are added, you subtract the smaller number from the larger number and the answer has the sign of the larger number.