Division of Integers
Learn how to divide positive and negative numbers with confidence!
1. Division as the Inverse of Multiplication
Key Idea:
Division "undoes" multiplication. If you know a multiplication fact, you automatically know a division fact!
The Rule:
If a × b = c, then c ÷ b = a
Example:
- We know: (−3) × 4 = −12
- So: −12 ÷ 4 = −3
- And: −12 ÷ (−3) = 4
Interactive visualization — available in the full lesson
💡 Pro Tip: Always check your division by multiplying the answer (quotient) by the divisor. You should get the dividend!
2. Sign Rules for Division
Remember:
The sign rules for division are exactly the same as for multiplication!
| Dividend | Divisor | Quotient |
|---|---|---|
| + (positive) | + (positive) | + (positive) |
| − (negative) | − (negative) | + (positive) |
| + (positive) | − (negative) | − (negative) |
| − (negative) | + (positive) | − (negative) |
Easy Memory Trick
SAME signs
= +
Like friends agreeing!DIFFERENT signs
= −
Like friends disagreeing! Interactive visualization — available in the full lesson