Question

Which of the following shows why the commutative property doesn't work under subtraction?

A. 5 – 1 ≠ 1 – 5
B. 5 – 1 ≠ 5 – 1
C. 3 + 2 ≠ 2 + 3
D. 5 + 1 = 7 – 1
And if you could please explain how you get the answer.

Answer 1

option (a) shows that the commutative property do not holds under subtraction.

(a) 5 – 1 ≠ 1 – 5

Explanation:

Given : Some options showing operation subtraction.

We have to choose out of given options which one shows that the commutative property doesn't work under subtraction.

Commutative property under addition states that for given any two positive numbers and b then following property holds
`a=b=b+a` that is it is irrespective of place the numbers are arranged like 2 + 3 = 3+ 2

but when we subtract two number the order or place of number matters.

Like 3 - 2 = 1 but 2 - 3 = -1 ≠ 1

Thus, the commutative property do not holds under subtraction.

5 – 1 = -4 ≠ 1 – 5 = -4

So, option (a) shows that the commutative property do not holds under subtraction.

Answer 2

A. 5 – 1 ≠ 1 – 5

While the left hand side gives a positive answer, the right hand side has a negative answer.