Question

can you explain how to add negatives
like -y + x or y + -x

Answer 1

Certainly! Adding negative numbers can be understood in a straightforward way. Here's a breakdown of how to add expressions that include negatives, like \(-y + x\) or \(y + -x\):

### Expression 1: \(-y + x\)

1. **Identify the terms**: In this expression, we have two terms: \(-y\) and \(x\).

2. **Combine like terms**: Since \(x\) and \(-y\) are not like terms, you cannot combine them further. Therefore, you just write the expression together:
\[
-y + x = x - y
\]

### Expression 2: \(y + -x\)

1. **Identify the terms**: Here, the terms are \(y\) and \(-x\).

2. **Combine like terms**: Similar to the previous expression, \(y\) and \(-x\) are also not like terms. So, you write it together:
\[
y + -x = y - x
\]

### General Notes on Adding Negatives

- When you see \(-y\) or \(-x\), think of it as the opposite of that variable. For example, \(-y\) means you are taking away \(y\).

- You can also think of addition involving negatives as moving along a number line. For example, adding \(-1\) is like moving left, and adding \(1\) is moving right.

### Summary:

- \(-y + x\) simplifies to \(x - y\).
- \(y + -x\) simplifies to \(y - x\).

If you have specific examples or further expressions you'd like to work through, feel free to ask!