Example

Finding the Denver Temperature Difference

Applying the subtraction strategy to initial negative temperatures, consider the situation in Denver. At lunchtime, the temperature was −6-6 degrees, and by sunset, it dropped to −15-15 degrees. To determine the difference between the lunchtime and sunset temperatures, translate the problem into the phrase 'the difference of −6-6 and −15-15.' This translates to the mathematical expression −6−(−15)-6 - (-15). By replacing the subtraction of a negative with the addition of a positive, the expression simplifies to −6+15-6 + 15, which equals 99. Thus, the difference in temperatures was 99 degrees.

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Updated 2026-06-17

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