a. \( -16-22= \) \( -16-22 \)

When you subtract 22 from -16, you're essentially moving left on the number line. So, -16 minus 22 equals -38. It may feel a bit like venturing deeper into a dark forest as the negative numbers grow larger, but fear not—you're just expanding your number knowledge! In practical situations, such as managing finances, this operation can help illustrate debts. Imagine you owe $16 and then borrow an additional $22; your total debt now amounts to $38. Understanding these adjustments makes handling your bank statements much less intimidating!