NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What is the product of -863 and -1224?

1. -1,056,312

2. 0

3. +1,056,312

4. 1,056,312

The correct answer is: +1,056,312

To determine the product of -863 and -1224, it’s important to understand the rules regarding the multiplication of negative numbers. When two negative numbers are multiplied together, the result is always positive. This principle is rooted in the properties of integers. In this case, multiplying -863 by -1224 will result in a positive number. The mathematical operation yields: -863 × -1224 = 1,056,312. Here, the magnitude of the product is essential, showing that the calculation leads to a large positive value as both factors are negative. The correct answer indicates the result of the multiplication as a positive number, specifically denoting it as +1,056,312. Thus, recognizing that the product of two negatives results in a positive is key to understanding why this outcome is accurate.