Locating Opposite Numbers on a Number Line (P=-10, Q=10)

Published on March 26, 2026

Pre-Algebra

This problem requires identifying the correct number line representation for two points, P at -10 and Q at the opposite of -10 (which is 10), demonstrating understanding of negative and opposite numbers.

Question

Answer

Here is the step-by-step solution to the problem:
1. Determine the location of Point P:
The problem states that point is represented at .
2. Determine the location of Point Q:
The problem states that point is represented at the opposite of .
The opposite of a number is .
Therefore, the opposite of is , which equals .
3. Summarize the locations:
  • Point is at .
  • Point is at .
4. Analyze the number line options:
A standard number line shows numbers increasing to the right and decreasing to the left, with in the middle. Negative numbers are to the left of , and positive numbers are to the right of .
We need a number line where is at (to the left of ) and is at (to the right of ). Furthermore, since , both points should be equidistant from .
  • Option A: Shows to the left of and to the right of . This would mean is negative and is positive. This contradicts our findings ( , ).
  • Option B: Shows to the left of and to the right of . This matches our findings: should be at a negative value ( ) and should be at a positive value ( ). Both points appear to be the same distance from .
  • Option C: Shows to the left of and to the left of . This would mean both points are negative, which contradicts .
5. Conclusion:
Option B correctly shows point on the negative side (left of 0) and point on the positive side (right of 0), and they appear equally spaced from .
The correct number line is B.