Let's solve each of these
adding and subtracting integers word problems step by step. We'll use positive and negative integers to represent elevations, temperatures, and financial balances.
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1. Mt. Everest vs. Dead Sea Elevation
-
Mt. Everest: 29,028 feet
above sea level →
+29,028
-
Dead Sea: 1,312 feet
below sea level →
–1,312
We want the
difference between these two elevations:
> Difference = Higher elevation – Lower elevation
> = 29,028 – (–1,312)
> = 29,028 + 1,312
> =
30,340 feet
✔ Answer: 30,340 feet
> *Explanation*: When subtracting a negative number, it becomes addition. The difference is how far apart the two points are from each other on the number line.
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2. Temperature Drop in Buffalo, NY
- Morning temperature:
–14°F
- Temperature
dropped by 7°F → that means we
subtract 7
> New temperature = –14 – 7 =
–21°F
✔ Answer: –21°F
> *Explanation*: A drop in temperature means going further below zero, so we subtract.
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3. Submarine Ascending
- Initial position: 800 feet
below sea level →
–800 feet
- It
ascends 250 feet → that means it moves
up, so we
add 250
> New position = –800 + 250 =
–550 feet
✔ Answer: 550 feet below sea level (or –550 ft)
> *Explanation*: Ascending means moving toward zero (less negative), so adding 250 reduces the depth.
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4. Temperature Difference: Sahara vs. Gobi Desert
- Sahara:
136°F
- Gobi:
–50°F
To find the
difference between two temperatures:
> Difference = Higher temp – Lower temp
> = 136 – (–50)
> = 136 + 50
> =
186°F
✔ Answer: 186°F
> *Explanation*: Again, subtracting a negative is like adding. The gap between 136 and –50 is 186 degrees.
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5. Overdrawn Checking Account
- Account is
overdrawn by $50 → balance =
–$50
- You write a check for
$20 → this
reduces your balance further
> New balance = –50 – 20 =
–$70
✔ Answer: –$70 (or $70 overdrawn)
> *Explanation*: Writing a check takes money out of your account. Since you're already in debt, you go deeper into debt.
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✔ Final Answers:
1.
30,340 feet
2.
–21°F
3.
–550 feet (550 feet below sea level)
4.
186°F
5.
–$70
Let me know if you'd like these explained with number lines or visual models!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of adding and subtracting integers word problems worksheet.