A negative number multiplied by a negative number results in a positive number.
Here's why:
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The Concept of Negation: A negative sign can be thought of as representing the "opposite" of a number. For example, -3 is the opposite of 3.
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Multiplying by a Negative as Repeated Subtraction: Multiplication can be viewed as repeated addition. Similarly, multiplying by a negative can be viewed as repeated subtraction.
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Applying the Logic: When you multiply a negative number by another negative number, you're essentially taking the "opposite" of a negative quantity. The opposite of a negative quantity is a positive quantity.
Examples:
- -2 * -3 = 6
- -5 * -1 = 5
- -10 * -4 = 40
In Simple Terms: Two negatives "cancel out" to make a positive.
