Final answer:
Adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers with fractions and decimals is similar to adding and subtracting with whole numbers in terms of the principles of positivity and negativity. However, there are differences in considering common denominators, multiplication and division rules for signs, and rounding and significant figures for decimals.
Step-by-step explanation:
When adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers with fractions and decimals, there are some similarities and differences compared to adding and subtracting with whole numbers.
Similarities:
- In both cases, when adding two positive numbers, the answer is positive.
- When adding two negative numbers, the answer is negative.
- When adding numbers with opposite signs, subtract the smaller number from the larger number and give the answer the sign of the larger number.
- The same principles apply to subtraction, where you change the sign of the number being subtracted and then follow the addition rules.
Differences:
- When adding or subtracting with fractions and decimals, it is important to consider common denominators to determine the correct answer.
- In multiplication, the sign of the answer follows specific rules depending on the signs of the numbers being multiplied.
- In division, the sign of the answer also follows specific rules based on the multiplication rules for signs.
- It is also important to consider rounding rules for decimals and significant figures for multiplication and division.