To determine which number line represents the difference [tex]\( -3 - 2 \)[/tex], let's go through the problem step-by-step.
1. Understand the Problem:
- We are given the expression [tex]\( -3 - 2 \)[/tex].
- We need to find the value of this expression.
2. Perform the Calculation:
- Start with the number [tex]\(-3\)[/tex].
- Subtract [tex]\(2\)[/tex] from [tex]\(-3\)[/tex].
3. Identify the Result:
- When we subtract 2 from -3, we get -5.
So, the expression [tex]\( -3 - 2 \)[/tex] equals [tex]\(-5\)[/tex].
4. Interpret the Result on a Number Line:
- Begin at the point [tex]\(-3\)[/tex] on the number line.
- Move 2 units to the left (because we are subtracting [tex]\(2\)[/tex]). Moving left since subtraction decreases the value.
After moving 2 units left from [tex]\(-3\)[/tex], we will fall on the number [tex]\(-5\)[/tex].
5. Conclusion:
- Find the number line that shows a starting point at [tex]\(-3\)[/tex], and then moves 2 units left to end at [tex]\(-5\)[/tex].
Therefore, the correct number line is the one that starts at [tex]\(-3\)[/tex] and ends at [tex]\(-5\)[/tex]. Choose the option (a), (b), (c), or (d) that accurately represents this movement.
