IMC 2007 Q14
14. If \(p\) is a positive integer and \(q\) is a negative integer, which of the following is greatest?
- A \(p - q\)
- B \(q - p\)
- C \(p + q\)
- D \(-p - q\)
- E More information needed
Intermediate Mathematical Challenge 2007, Question 14. © UK Mathematics Trust. Original paper on ukmt.org.uk
Answer: A \(p - q\)
Both \(p\) and \(-q\) are positive numbers. Hence \(p + (-q)\) is the largest of the alternatives.
Solution © UK Mathematics Trust, from the IMC 2007 solutions.