To represent the expression \( 2 \cdot (-4) \), we can think of it as a multiplication operation involving an integer and a negative integer.
Here's how you can model it:
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Multiplication Model:
- You can visualize \( 2 \cdot (-4) \) as taking the number \(-4\) and adding it to itself 2 times.
- In this case, \( 2 \cdot (-4) = -4 + (-4) = -8 \).
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Number Line:
- On a number line, starting at 0, if you move left (towards the negative side) 4 units (to -4), and then do this 2 times, you would move left a total of 8 units, landing on -8.
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Area Model:
- You could also think of it in terms of area. Imagine a rectangle with a length of 2 and a width of -4. Because the width is negative, the concept of area here would represent a reflection or negative area.
To conclude, the expression \( 2 \cdot (-4) \) equals \(-8\).