Question

How do I multiply negative numbers?
Will fan.

Answer 1

Hey there! Welcome to OpenStudy! :D

Answer 2

Thanks!

Answer 3

So if we have a negative number, such as -3
And another negative number such as -4

Then

(-3) x (-4) = +12

Negative number times a negative number always equals a positive number. You just first multiply the number as you would with a positive number, and then decide on the sign of it :)
The sign could either be positive or negative :)

Answer 4

Thank you!

Answer 5

Step 1) Ignore the negative signs. Just multiply the numbers like normal


Step 2) whatever result you get in step 1 will be either positive or negative. It depends on these rules


(positive) * (positive) = positive
(positive) * (negative) = negative
(negative) * (positive) = negative
(negative) * (negative) = positive


Summary: if the two numbers are the same sign (both positive or both negative) then the result is positive. If one number is positive and the other is negative, then the result is negative.

Answer 6

Now, do you know what would happen if we had a positive number multiply by a negative number, or vice versa?

Answer 7

Yes... thank you!

Answer 8

Anytime! :D