91Ó°ÊÓ

Simplifying expressions is one of the key tasks in algebra. When we simplify an expression, we make it easier to work with by combining like terms or reducing fractions. In the given problem, there's a need to simplify both the numerator and the denominator before anything else.

Begin with the numerator. You have an expression inside it, \( -40 \times 3 \), which simplifies to \( -120 \). Once the numerator is simplified, work on the denominator.

In this case, the denominator simplifies from \( -2 - 3 \) to \( -5 \).

By systematically breaking down each part of the expression, it becomes easier to handle and solve.

In any fraction, the top number is called the numerator, and the bottom number is the denominator. Understanding this terminology is crucial because it helps us know what part of the fraction we are dealing with.

For example, in the problem given, \( \frac{-40(3)}{-2-3} \), \( -40(3) \) is the numerator and \( -2-3 \) is the denominator.

We simplify the numerator first by multiplying \( -40 \) by \( 3 \) to get \( -120 \). Then we turn to the denominator, simplifying \( -2-3 \) to get \( -5 \).

Once both parts are simplified, the fraction is more manageable, and we can go on to perform the division.

It is essential to work on both parts separately to avoid mistakes and make the problem easier to solve.

Division of integers is the final step to solving the problem once both the numerator and the denominator are simplified. In our example, you would get \( \frac{-120}{-5} \).

Remember that dividing two negative numbers will result in a positive number. So, \( \frac{-120}{-5} = 24 \).

This might seem tricky at first, but the rule to remember is:

• Negative divided by negative equals a positive
• Positive divided by positive equals a positive
• Negative divided by positive equals a negative
• Positive divided by negative equals a negative

By keeping this in mind, you can solve many similar problems effectively.