In the following problem, which step uses the additive identity to get to the next step?

Question

1. -18 + 73 + 18
2. -18 + 18 + 73
3. 0 + 73
4. 73
Step 1
Step 4
Step 3
Step 2

Answer 1

The additive identity is the number 0, which does not change the value of any number when added to it. In the problem, we are looking for the step that uses the additive identity.

Let's analyze the steps:

1. -18 + 73 + 18
2. -18 + 18 + 73 (Rearranging the terms)
3. 0 + 73 (This step combines -18 and 18, which results in 0)
4. 73 (Adding 0 to 73 gives 73)

The step that uses the additive identity (where -18 + 18 results in 0) is Step 3.

Thus, the correct answer is Step 3.