Question

Verify the properties of rational numbers with respect to four operations and present in table

Answer 1

For any two rational numbers a and b, a + b = b+ a

−23+ 57 and 57+ −23 = 121

so, −23+ 57 = 57+ −23

We see that the two rational numbers can be added in any order. So addition is commutative for rational numbers.

2. Subtraction

For any two rational numbers a and b, a – b ≠ b – a. Given are the two rational numbers 53 and 14,

53 – 14 = 20−312

= 1712

But, 14 – 53 = 3−2012

= −1712