Evaluate each of the following:
c. 4 × (–2) + 6 = __________

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the mathematical operations in the expression. The given expression is 4 × (-2) + 6. It involves multiplication and addition.
2. Step 2: Perform the multiplication first, as per the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS). Multiply 4 by -2. This will give a product of -8.
3. Step 3: After completing the multiplication, rewrite the expression with the result of the multiplication substituted in. The expression now becomes -8 + 6.
4. Step 4: Perform the addition operation. Add -8 and 6 together. Remember that adding a negative number is equivalent to subtracting its absolute value.
5. Step 5: The result of the addition will give the final value of the expression. Ensure you understand how to combine positive and negative numbers correctly.

Key Concepts

Multiplication

Multiplication is a fundamental arithmetic operation that represents the repeated addition of a number. In the expression 4 x (-2), it indicates that -2 is added to itself four times, resulting in a negative product. Understanding multiplication is essential for evaluating expressions that involve both positive and negative numbers.

Addition

Addition is another basic arithmetic operation that combines two or more numbers to produce a sum. In the expression 6 + (result of multiplication), it is crucial to correctly add the result of the multiplication to 6. This operation is foundational in arithmetic and is often used in conjunction with multiplication in algebraic expressions.

Order of Operations

The order of operations is a set of rules that dictates the sequence in which different mathematical operations should be performed to ensure consistent results. Commonly remembered by the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction), it is vital to follow this order when evaluating expressions like 4 x (-2) + 6 to arrive at the correct answer.