GMAT Arithmetic Explained — Represent positive numbers? I. -3-(-5) II. (-3)(-5) III. -5-(-3)

Which of the following represent positive numbers? I. - 3 - (- 5) II. (- 3) (- 5) III. - 5 - (- 3)

calculations

Explanation	Calculations	Help
$Statement I involves subtracting a negative number, which converts to addition of its positive counterpart.$	$- 3 - (- 5) = - 3 + 5 = 2$	Theory & Tactics Method Card PN1-C Click to view full details
$Statement II involves multiplying two negative numbers, which yields a positive product.$	$(- 3) (- 5) = 15$	Theory & Tactics Method Card PN2-B Click to view full details
$Statement III involves subtracting a negative number, converting to addition and then evaluating.$	$- 5 - (- 3) = - 5 + 3 = - 2$	Theory & Tactics Method Card PN1-C Click to view full details

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Only statements I and II represent positive numbers, so the correct answer is D.