Verified Answer :

  • The expression to evaluate is \(53 - (-25)\).
  • Recognize that subtracting a negative value is equivalent to adding its positive equivalent: \(a - (-b) = a + b\).
  • Apply this property: \(53 - (-25) = 53 + 25\).
  • Calculate the final sum: \(53 + 25 = 78\).
  • The final answer is \(\boxed{78}\).

Explanation

  1. Problem Analysis and Rule Identification

The objective is to evaluate the mathematical expression \(53 - (-25)\). This involves understanding the properties of signed numbers and the rule of subtraction. Subtracting a negative number is equivalent to adding its positive counterpart. Formally, for any real numbers \(a\) and \(b\), we have \(a - (-b) = a + b\).

  1. Evaluating the Expression

Apply the rule for subtracting negative numbers to the expression. We have:
\[53 - (-25) = 53 + 25\]
Now, add the two positive integers:
\[53 + 25 = 78\]
Thus, the value of the expression is \(78\).

Examples

In real life, subtraction of negative numbers often appears in temperature calculations. For instance, if the temperature outside is \(53^\circ\text{F}\) and a cold front passed through that decreased the temperature by \(-25^\circ\text{F}\) (meaning it actually increased), the final temperature would be \(53 - (-25) = 78^\circ\text{F}\). Understanding this helps in tracking changes in data that can fluctuate above or below a reference point.

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