Identify Signs: Let's identify the signs of the two numbers we are dealing with.We have −2 and −(−7). The second number is a negative of a negative, which will become a positive.So, we are effectively dealing with −2 and +7.
Rewrite Subtraction: Now, let's rewrite the subtraction of a negative number as the addition of a positive number.Subtracting −7 is the same as adding +7.So, the expression −2−(−7) becomes −2+7.
Add Absolute Values: Next, we add the two numbers. Since they have different signs, we take the absolute values and subtract the smaller from the larger.The absolute values are 2 and 7.Subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger one: 7−2.
Perform Subtraction: Perform the subtraction: 7−2 equals 5.Since the larger absolute value was from the positive number, our result will be positive.So, −2+7 equals +5.