Understanding Negative Numbers: What is 1 Less than -99?

When working with negative numbers, it can be helpful to visualize them on a number line. Negative numbers represent values less than zero, and as we move from left to right on the number line, the value of the numbers increases. On the other hand, as we move to the left, the value of the numbers decreases. This concept is essential to understand when performing operations such as subtraction.

What is 1 Less than -99?

The problem at hand is to determine what is 1 less than -99. To solve this, we need to understand the fundamental concept of moving one step to the left on the number line. On a number line, moving to the left decreases the value by 1. Therefore, 1 less than any negative number is simply that number with 1 added to it.

Mathematically, the problem can be represented as:

-99 - 1

When we subtract 1 from -99, we move one step to the left on the number line. This results in the number -100.

Solution

The solution to the problem is:

-100

Understanding the Concept Further

Let's break down the concept of negative numbers and subtraction in a bit more detail.

Negative Numbers on a Number Line

A number line is a visual representation of numbers, where positive numbers are to the right of zero, and negative numbers are to the left of zero. The further to the left a number is, the smaller its value.

Subtraction of Negative Numbers

Subtraction of a negative number is equivalent to adding the positive counterpart of that number. For example, subtracting -1 from -99 is the same as adding 1 to -99, which is -98. However, in the original problem, we are subtracting 1, resulting in -100.

Conclusion

Understanding negative numbers and how to perform basic arithmetic operations on them is crucial for various applications, from everyday calculations to advanced mathematics. The answer to the question "What is 1 less than -99?" is -100, which demonstrates the straightforward process of moving to the left on the number line.

Additional Information

To further your understanding, consider exploring more questions and problems involving negative numbers and operations. You can also delve into resources on algebra, where negative numbers play a significant role in solving equations and inequalities.