Averaging Negative Numbers

Question

Over a four year period, the hour meter on an instrument air compressor had the following readings at the end of each year; 1st yr. -976.3, 2nd yr. -1325.8, 3rd yr. -2007.1 and the 4th yr. -2371.4. How many hours does the meter show the compressor ran during the 3rd year?

A) 349.5 hrs

B) 363.3

C) 681.3

D) 830.2

 

I don't understand how they come up C) as the answer? Can you please help me out thank you 

Answer 1

Hi Chris, the final meter reading at the end of the third year was: -2007.1.

 

The final meter reading at the end of the second year was: -1325.8.

 

The difference is the hours the compressor ran during the third year.

 

2007.1

1325.8

--------

  681.3

 

Questions?