Question

Simplify

– 72 ÷ 12 ÷ 3

Short answer

The quotient is – 2

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 – The concept of quotient

In mathematics, the quotient is the number obtained by dividing one number by another number.

Step-2 – Rules and examples of division of integers

Rules and example of Division of integers

RULE 1: The quotient of a positive integer and a negative integer is negative.

RULE 2: The quotient of two positive integers is positive.

RULE 3: The quotient of two negative integers is positive.

Examples:

Rule 1: (– 8) ÷ (+ 4) = – 2

Rule 2: (+ 6) ÷ (– 3) = – 2

Rule 3: (+ 9) ÷ (+ 3) = +3

Rule 4: (– 6) ÷ (– 2) = +3

Step-3 – Evaluate:  – 72 ÷ 12 ÷ 3 

Rule:The quotient of a negative integer and a positive integer is negative.

$- 72 ÷ 12 ÷ 3 = - 6 ÷ 3$

Once again with the same rule:$- 6 ÷ 3 = - 2$

Thus, $- 72 ÷ 12 ÷ 3 = - 2$