Multiply and Divide Positive and Negative Numbers

For this activity, we will focus on the multiplication and division of positive and negative numbers.

We can consider two cases here, firstly when the two numbers have the same sign, meaning both numbers are either negative or both numbers are positive. Secondly, when both numbers have a different sign to one another. 

Same signs

When you multiply or divide two positive or two negative numbers, the answer will be positive.

5 x 7 = 35

-5 x - 7 = 35

and  

- 20 ÷ - 5 = 4 

 20 ÷ 5 = 4 

Different signs

If you multiply or divide a positive number with a negative number, the result will be negative.

7 x - 5 = - 35

- 7 x  5 = - 35

and 

80  ÷ - 10 = - 8 

- 80 ÷  10 = - 8

These are very important rules that need to be remembered! Have you got it sorted?

Let's try out some questions now.