SOLUTION: if i have a fraction with a negative numerator and a negative denominator, is that fraction a negative number or a positive? I am asking because i worked a problem for practice and

Algebra ->  Exponents-negative-and-fractional -> SOLUTION: if i have a fraction with a negative numerator and a negative denominator, is that fraction a negative number or a positive? I am asking because i worked a problem for practice and      Log On


   

Question 274153: if i have a fraction with a negative numerator and a negative denominator, is that fraction a negative number or a positive? I am asking because i worked a problem for practice and that is how the fraction in the eqaution worked out.
Answer by josmiceli(19441) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A negative divided by a negative is a positive.
Suppose I say
-10%2F%28-5%29+=+2
Now say I multiply both sides by -5
-10+=+2%2A%28-5%29
-10+=+-10
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Now I say
-10%2F-5+=+-2
Now say I multiply both sides by -5
-10+=+%28-2%29%2A%28-5%29
-10+=+10 not true
so, I was right the 1st time