To divide integers with different signs, divide the numbers as usual, and then assign a negative sign to the result.
Here's a breakdown:
- Divide the absolute values: Ignore the signs initially and perform the division as you normally would with positive numbers.
- Determine the sign: When dividing a positive integer by a negative integer (or vice-versa), the result is always negative.
In essence:
Positive ÷ Negative = Negative
Negative ÷ Positive = Negative
Example:
Let's say you want to divide 15 by -3.
- Divide the absolute values: 15 ÷ 3 = 5
- Determine the sign: Since we are dividing a positive number by a negative number, the answer is negative.
Therefore, 15 ÷ -3 = -5
Another Example:
Let's say you want to divide -20 by 4.
- Divide the absolute values: 20 ÷ 4 = 5
- Determine the sign: Since we are dividing a negative number by a positive number, the answer is negative.
Therefore, -20 ÷ 4 = -5
Essentially, when the signs of the dividend and divisor are different, the quotient is negative.
