Bah. Where did the -1 come from?

  • Thread starter physicsnoob93
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In summary, the -1 in the phrase "Bah. Where did the -1 come from?" is used as a negative one, often used to represent an error or invalid value in mathematics and computer programming. It is likely a stylistic choice by the speaker or writer and may be used for emphasis or to create confusion or frustration. The -1 likely does not have a specific origin or meaning and could be interpreted differently depending on the context. In science and mathematics, the use of -1 can hold different meanings, but in this phrase, it is not significant in a scientific or mathematical way.
  • #1
physicsnoob93
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http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/6110/qnisstb4.jpg

I always get the positive and negatives confused. I don't have a teacher to guide me so help would be appreciated. The correct answer is in green ink.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
At one point you have converted 1/(x+2) into (-1)/(2- x). That's wrong. That would be equal to 1/(x-2) not 1/(x+ 2). What you want, rather, is 1/(x+ 2)= 1/(2+x)= 1/(2-(-x)). Then dividing by numerator and denominator by 2: (1/2)/(1-(-x/2)). The "r" in your geometric series is -x/2, not x/2.
 

Related to Bah. Where did the -1 come from?

1. What is the significance of the -1 in "Bah. Where did the -1 come from?"

The -1 in this phrase refers to a negative one, which is often used in mathematics and computer programming to represent an error or invalid value.

2. Why is the -1 used instead of another number or symbol?

The use of -1 in this phrase is likely a stylistic choice by the speaker or writer. It may also be used to add emphasis or create a sense of confusion or frustration.

3. Does the -1 have a specific origin or meaning?

The -1 in this phrase likely does not have a specific origin or meaning. It may be used as a placeholder or filler in a statement, similar to saying "blah" or "um".

4. Could the -1 have a different interpretation in this context?

It is possible that the -1 could have a different interpretation in this context, depending on the speaker or writer's intention. It could be used as a form of sarcasm or as a way to express frustration or annoyance.

5. Is the -1 significant in any scientific or mathematical way?

In science and mathematics, the use of -1 can hold different meanings depending on the context. In this phrase, it is likely not significant in a scientific or mathematical way, but rather a linguistic choice by the speaker or writer.

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