What operation does subtracting a negative number represent?

Subtracting a negative number is mathematically equivalent to adding the positive value of that number. This is due to the rules of arithmetic involving negatives: when you subtract a negative number, you are effectively moving up on the number line, which aligns with the concept of addition.

For example, if you have a number, say 5, and you subtract -3 from it (5 - (-3)), this can be rephrased as 5 + 3, resulting in a total of 8. This relationship exemplifies why subtracting a negative translates into an addition operation. Understanding this principle is crucial in mathematical problem-solving, as it helps clarify how to manipulate expressions involving negative numbers effectively.