Mathematics ACT Aspire Practice Test

What is the result of multiplying two integers with the same signs?

1. The result will be negative

2. The result will be zero

3. The result will be positive

4. The result cannot be determined

The correct answer is: The result will be positive

When you multiply two integers that have the same signs, the result is always positive. This is a fundamental property of multiplication. For instance, if both integers are positive, multiplying them together yields a positive product. Similarly, if both integers are negative, multiplying them also results in a positive product because a negative times a negative is defined as a positive. The reasoning behind this concept can be understood better through various mathematical principles, such as the number line and the concept of opposites. When traversing in the same direction (whether that direction is positive or negative), the result is a movement forward on the number line, leading to a positive outcome. Therefore, multiplying two integers with the same signs will consistently produce a positive result.