Question

fill in each blank with an integer (signed number). (a) $1 - 6 = 1 + \square$ (b) $4 - (-1) = 4 + \square$

Explanation:

Part (a)

Step1: Recall subtraction rule

Subtracting a number is same as adding its opposite. So, \(a - b = a + (-b)\). For \(1 - 6\), using this rule, \(1 - 6 = 1 + (-6)\).

Step2: Identify the blank

So the blank should be \(-6\).

Part (b)

Step1: Recall subtraction of negative rule

Subtracting a negative number is same as adding its positive. So, \(a - (-b)=a + b\). For \(4 - (-1)\), using this rule, \(4 - (-1)=4 + 1\).

Step2: Identify the blank

So the blank should be \(1\).

Answer:

(a) \(-6\)
(b) \(1\)