If the question says -4-21, is 21 a negative or positive number?

its like saying -4+(-21)

Hi bioplant,

This is a good question :)

"If the question says -4-21 is 21 a negative or positive number?"

You can think of this 2 ways.

either

-4 + -21      where you are adding a negative number, I think that is usually the best way to look at it.

OR

-4 -  +21    where you are taking away a positive number.

Both interpretations are correct but it is usually more helpful to think of it as adding a negative number

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-4-21 = -25

If you are confused then you use a number line to help you work this out.

start at -4 and then go 21 more in the NEGATIVE direction   that will get you to -25