Algebraic addition

Algebraic addition is a method in mathematics for adding numbers in which negative numbers can be added to and subtracted from other numbers. When a negative number is added to another number, it must be enclosed in parentheses and is simply subtracted from the number: <math>4 + (-2) = 2</math>. When a negative number is subtracted from a number, it is also enclosed in parentheses. The negative signs cancel with one another, and the number is then added: <math>4 - (-2) = 4 + 2 = 6</math>.