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Simple Maths

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Monika | 11:52 Mon 05th Nov 2007 | Science
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I know this is only simple maths but, being 71 years of age, I've forgotten some things.

My question is: In a maths problem where a =2, b= -1 and c= -1, what is the value of 3abc ( I don't know what you do with the abc)
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You multiply them together.
so 3abc is the same as 3 x a x b x c
Yopu just multiply them together

You can obit the multiply sign so 3abc is the same as

3 x a x b x c

6 with your numbers
- (minus) 6 surely ?!
3 x 2 x -1 x -1 = 6
No! +6
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Thank you one and all.
no, b and c are both -1 so -1 x -1 = 1
'Two minuses make a plus'

3 x 2 = 6, -1 x 6 = -6, -1 x -6 = 6
Yes of course I am being a retard lol
Two minuses make a plus when the numbers are multiplied or divided.
I think it better to say two negatives make a positive when speaking of division or multiplication. Minus or plus suggests subtraction or addition.
Derrynoose's more complete statement clarifies the point.

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