Answer :
- Calculate the absolute values of both numbers: |-356.1| = 356.1 and |258.6| = 258.6.
- Subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger: 356.1 - 258.6 = 97.5.
- Assign the sign of the number with the larger absolute value (which is negative) to the result.
- The final answer is $\boxed{{-97.5}}$.
### Explanation
1. Understanding the Problem
We need to calculate the sum of two real numbers: -356.1 and 258.6. This is a straightforward addition of two numbers with opposite signs.
2. Determining the Sign
To find the sum, we subtract the absolute value of the smaller number from the absolute value of the larger number, and then assign the sign of the number with the larger absolute value to the result. In this case, we have |-356.1| = 356.1 and |258.6| = 258.6. Since |-356.1| > |258.6|, the result will be negative.
3. Calculating the Result
Now, we subtract the absolute values: 356.1 - 258.6 = 97.5. Since the number with the larger absolute value was -356.1, the final result is -97.5.
4. Final Answer
Therefore, the sum of -356.1 and 258.6 is -97.5.
### Examples
Understanding how to add and subtract negative numbers is essential in managing finances. For instance, if you have a bank account with a starting balance, adding deposits (positive numbers) and subtracting withdrawals (negative numbers) requires this skill. Accurately calculating these sums helps you keep track of your account balance and avoid overdraft fees. This basic arithmetic is also crucial in budgeting and tracking expenses.
- Subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger: 356.1 - 258.6 = 97.5.
- Assign the sign of the number with the larger absolute value (which is negative) to the result.
- The final answer is $\boxed{{-97.5}}$.
### Explanation
1. Understanding the Problem
We need to calculate the sum of two real numbers: -356.1 and 258.6. This is a straightforward addition of two numbers with opposite signs.
2. Determining the Sign
To find the sum, we subtract the absolute value of the smaller number from the absolute value of the larger number, and then assign the sign of the number with the larger absolute value to the result. In this case, we have |-356.1| = 356.1 and |258.6| = 258.6. Since |-356.1| > |258.6|, the result will be negative.
3. Calculating the Result
Now, we subtract the absolute values: 356.1 - 258.6 = 97.5. Since the number with the larger absolute value was -356.1, the final result is -97.5.
4. Final Answer
Therefore, the sum of -356.1 and 258.6 is -97.5.
### Examples
Understanding how to add and subtract negative numbers is essential in managing finances. For instance, if you have a bank account with a starting balance, adding deposits (positive numbers) and subtracting withdrawals (negative numbers) requires this skill. Accurately calculating these sums helps you keep track of your account balance and avoid overdraft fees. This basic arithmetic is also crucial in budgeting and tracking expenses.
