Rationale
The sum of the numbers is 9.
To find the sum of the numbers 10, 2.5, -4, -4.5, and 5, we add them together: 10 + 2.5 - 4 - 4.5 + 5 equals 9. This calculation confirms that the total of these values results in the correct answer.
A) 17.5
This option incorrectly suggests that the sum of the numbers is 17.5. The calculations show that when properly adding the values, they do not total this amount. Instead, the inclusion of negative numbers significantly reduces the overall sum.
B) 9
Adding the numbers together yields the sum of 9. The calculation proceeds as follows: 10 + 2.5 = 12.5; then, 12.5 - 4 = 8.5; next, 8.5 - 4.5 = 4; and finally, 4 + 5 = 9. Thus, this choice accurately represents the correct sum.
C) 15
Option C suggests a sum of 15, which is incorrect. The addition of the negative numbers in the set reduces the total significantly below 15, as demonstrated in the step-by-step calculation. Thus, this option does not reflect the actual sum.
D) -8.5
This choice proposes a negative sum, which is not possible given the positive values in the set. The addition of the positive numbers outweighs the negative values, resulting in a positive sum instead of a negative one. Therefore, this option is not feasible.
Conclusion
The accurate sum of the numbers 10, 2.5, -4, -4.5, and 5 is 9, confirming choice B as the correct answer. The process of adding positive and negative values illustrates how the total can be affected, ultimately leading to a positive result rather than any other option presented.
