To solve the expression [tex]\(-121 - 144\)[/tex], let's follow a step-by-step approach:
1. Understand the Problem:
The expression involves subtracting 144 from -121. Essentially, you are moving further left on the number line when subtracting a positive number from a negative number.
2. Perform the Subtraction:
Starting at -121 and subtracting 144 means you are continuing to move further into negative territory. Combining these two negative values results in:
[tex]\[
-121 - 144 = -265
\][/tex]
3. Check the Choices:
Let's compare our result with the given multiple-choice options:
- A: -265
- B: -23
- C: 23
- D: 265
4. Match the Results:
Our calculated result is [tex]\(-265\)[/tex], and this matches option A.
So, the correct answer is:
[tex]\[
\boxed{-265}
\][/tex]
