Multiplying and dividing negative numbers

The rules for multiplying and dividing numbers are:

  • two signs that are different become a negative sign
  • two signs that are the same become a positive sign
Multiplying or dividing a positive and negative number, produces a negative result. Multiplying or dividing a positive and positive, or negative and negative number, produces a positive result

Examples

  • Same signs give a positive: \((-4) \times (-5) = 20\)
  • Same signs give a positive: \(20 \div 5 = 4\)
  • Different signs give a negative: \((-14) \div 2 = -7\)
  • Different signs give a negative: \(14 \div -2 = -7\)

Question

Calculate \(-4 \times 3\).

Question

Calculate \(12 \div (-4)\).

Question

Calculate \((-5) \times (-6)\).

Next up
Test your understanding
Previous page
Adding and subtracting negative numbers

More guides on this topic

Related links