The integer −5would best represent which of these events?

Question

I. You gain 5 pounds.

II. You set your clock 5 hours ahead.

III. You use 5 gallons of gas.

Answer 1

The integer \( -5 \) would best represent the event that corresponds to a loss or decrease. Let's analyze each option:

I. You gain 5 pounds.

• This represents an increase, so it would not be represented by \( -5 \).

II. You set your clock 5 hours ahead.

• This indicates moving forward in time, which does not correspond to a negative value.

III. You use 5 gallons of gas.

• This implies a consumption or depletion of gas, which could be seen as a reduction and therefore can be represented as \( -5 \) in the context of the remaining amount.

Given these interpretations, the best event to represent by \( -5 \) is:

III. You use 5 gallons of gas.