SOLUTION: Can you please help me understand why and how to solve problems with parenthesis around it? Example: (-2) x 4 or -(-2) x (4) Thank You

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: Can you please help me understand why and how to solve problems with parenthesis around it? Example: (-2) x 4 or -(-2) x (4) Thank You      Log On


   

Question 212381: Can you please help me understand why and how to solve problems with parenthesis around it? Example: (-2) x 4 or -(-2) x (4)
Thank You
Answer by edjones(8007) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
a negative times a negative is a plus.
(-2)*4
=-2*4
=-8
.
-(-2)*(4) The -(-2) is the same as -1(-2) which is the same as -1*-2
=2*4
=8
.
Ed