B How Can I Calculate Negative Multiplication Without Following Traditional Rules?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating negative multiplication without adhering to traditional rules. A user presents a scenario of multiplying 6 pencils by negative two, concluding that 6 x -2 equals -6 based on their reasoning. However, others clarify that starting with 6 pencils means the equation should be interpreted as 6 + (-2 x 6), resulting in -6. If the initial count were zero, the outcome would be -12, emphasizing the importance of the starting value in calculations. The thread concludes with a reminder that the original post was deleted after receiving clarification, which is against forum rules.
pyroclasticsoul
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Do NOT delete your Original Post after you have received replies and help
TL;DR Summary
Negative times positive
Say I have 6 pencils. I want to times this by negative two. Now ignoring the rules that your teacher taught you work this out. 6 pencils negative 2 times. Negative one time would be 0 and another negative times would be -6 right? So 6 x - 2 = -6 according to simple logic. The calculator will say -12 but if I took 6 away from 6 3 times that would be -12.
 
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pyroclasticsoul said:
TL;DR Summary: Negative times positive

Say I have 6 pencils. I want to times this by negative two. Now ignoring the rules that your teacher taught you work this out. 6 pencils negative 2 times. Negative one time would be 0 and another negative times would be -6 right? So 6 x - 2 = -6 according to simple logic. The calculator will say -12 but if I took 6 away from 6 3 times that would be -12.
No. You started out with 6. "I have 6 pencils." You're describing 6 + -2x6 which equals -6.

If you had started out with zero, then the final answer would indeed be -12.
 
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DaveC426913 said:
No. You started out with 6. "I have 6 pencils." You're describing 6 + -2x6 which equals -6.

If you had started out with zero, then the final answer would indeed be -12.
I thought about that but why do I start with 0 and not 6 since 6 is the number adjusted by -2.
 
pyroclasticsoul said:
why do I start with 0

Read the problem statement you wrote.

"I have 6 pencils"

The problem starts at +6 pencils.
 
Note -- the OP deleted their first post after getting help from Dave. This is not allowed. The OP text is restored and this thread is now closed.
 
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