Question

A number line is shown. Which expression represents the distance between two points, X and Y, on the number line?

<--(-6)---(-4x)---(-2)---0---2-y-4--6-->

A.-4-3
B. -4+3
C. [-4-3]
D. [-4+3]

Answer 1

Answer: C. |-4 - 3|

Explanation:

x = -4

y = 3

The distance between them is the difference. The mathematical operation for difference is subtraction.

Distance is a unit of measurement. Measurements cannot be negative so the absolute value sign is used to ensure the difference is positive.