Step by step
The question
Question: find the value of 2(x + y) when x = 4 and y = −6.
2(x + y)
x = 4, y = −6
1 Put the numbers in
We put 4 in place of x and −6 in place of y.
2(x + y) means 2 times (x + y).
So we write a times sign.
A negative number goes in brackets, so its minus stays with it.
= 2 × (4 + (−6))
2(x + y) = 2 × (x + y)
2 Brackets first
Brackets come first.
Adding a negative is the same as taking away.
Order: ( ) → x² √ → × ÷ → + −
+ (−) = −
So 4 + (−6) becomes 4 − 6.
= 2 × (4 − 6)
We take away more than we have.
Start at 4.
Go down 6.
We pass 0 and land on −2.
= 2 × (−2)
3 Times and divide
+ × − = −
Plus times minus is minus.
2 times 2 is 4.
So we get −4.
= −4
So 2(x + y) is −4 when x = 4 and y = −6.
Let's look back.
First: put the numbers in.
Then: brackets first.
Last: times and divide.
Answer
= −4