Question

fill in the blanks below.
(a) the population of a certain city increased by 40,000 people.
write a signed number to represent this population change.

(b) a hibernating animal lost 6 pounds.
write a signed number to represent this weight change.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze population change

An increase in population is a positive change. So for a 40,000 - person increase, the signed number is +40000 (or 40000, as the positive sign can be implied in some cases).

Step2: Analyze weight change

A loss in weight is a negative change. So for a 6 - pound loss, the signed number is - 6.

Answer:

(a) 40000 (or +40000)
(b) - 6