Question

Since 2 is further left on a number line than 5, 2 < 5. Let’s consider the opposites of these numbers.

Identify the opposite of 2 on the number line.


Identify the opposite of 5 on the number line.


Using your results, which statement is true?

Since –2 is further

Answer 1

Opposite of 2: -2
Opposite of 5: -5

Since -2 is to the right of -5 on the number line (closer to zero), -2 > -5.
So 2 < 5 implies -2 > -5 (multiplying both sides by -1 reverses the inequality).