When multiplying two negative numbers, what type of result can be expected?

When multiplying two negative numbers, the result is positive. This outcome can be understood through the rules of multiplication in mathematics. In essence, the multiplication of negative numbers is grounded in the properties of integers and their signs.

The reasoning is that a negative number can be considered as the opposite of its positive counterpart. For instance, multiplying -a (a negative number) by -b (another negative number) can be interpreted as determining how far away the product is from “zero”, and since you are essentially reversing the direction twice, it results in a positive value. A simple example is -2 multiplied by -3, which equals 6, a positive number.

This property is essential in various areas of mathematics and underpins more complex concepts in algebra and other fields. Understanding this rule enables students to handle equations and expressions involving negative numbers with confidence.