1. What is This Calculator?

This calculator performs a simple arithmetic operation that combines a positive and negative number according to the formula: Result = pos + (-neg). It's useful for financial calculations, accounting, and other scenarios where you need to combine positive and negative values.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( pos \) — Any positive number
• \( neg \) — Any negative number (entered as positive, will be converted to negative)

Explanation: The calculator effectively subtracts the negative number from the positive number, which is equivalent to adding their absolute values.

3. Practical Applications

Details: This calculation is commonly used in financial contexts where you need to net out positive and negative amounts, such as calculating net profit/loss, account balances, or budget variances.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the positive number in the first field and the absolute value of the negative number in the second field. The calculator will automatically handle the sign conversion.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why not just enter negative numbers directly?
A: This format makes it clear that we're specifically handling the combination of positive and negative values, which is useful for certain accounting and financial applications.

Q2: What if I enter negative numbers in both fields?
A: The calculator will still work mathematically, but conceptually it's designed for one positive and one negative value.

Q3: Can I use decimal numbers?
A: Yes, the calculator accepts and calculates with decimal numbers up to 4 decimal places.

Q4: What's the maximum number size I can use?
A: The calculator can handle very large numbers within the limits of standard floating-point arithmetic.

Q5: How is this different from regular subtraction?
A: Mathematically it's the same, but this format emphasizes working with explicitly positive and negative values.