What is 1+1?
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hollandsam
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The question "What is 1+1?" is a fundamental concept in mathematics, with the straightforward answer being 2, as demonstrated through various representations including number lines, manipulatives, and real-world examples.
Basic Arithmetic Explanation
Adding 1 and 1 is a fundamental operation in arithmetic that forms the basis for more complex mathematical concepts. This simple addition can be understood as combining two individual units to create a single, larger quantity. In the base-10 number system used in everyday life, the result of this operation is always 2, expressed verbally as "two"
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. This consistent outcome holds true regardless of the objects or concepts being counted, making it a universal mathematical truth that applies across various contexts and cultures.1 source
Visual and Physical Representations
Visual and physical representations can greatly aid in understanding the concept of 1+1=2. A number line provides a clear illustration, showing how moving one unit to the right from 1 leads to 2.
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For a more tangible approach, manipulatives can be used to demonstrate the addition. For instance, | + | = || visually represents how combining two single units results in a pair.1
Real-world examples further reinforce this concept:
- One apple plus another apple equals two apples
- One finger plus one finger equals two fingers
- One step plus one step equals two steps
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Number Line Illustration
The number line provides a clear visual representation of the addition 1+1=2. On this linear graph, starting at the point marked 1 and moving one unit to the right (representing the addition of 1) leads precisely to the point marked 2.
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This illustration effectively demonstrates the concept of addition as movement along the number line, with each whole number unit representing a step. The number line not only helps visualize this basic addition but also serves as a foundation for understanding more complex mathematical operations and relationships between numbers.1 source
Human Computation Times
Interestingly, the speed at which humans compute the simple addition of 1+1 varies with age. According to data from Wolfram|Alpha, typical computation times show a clear progression:
- Age 6: 3.2 seconds
- Age 8: 1.8 seconds
- Age 10: 1.2 seconds
- Age 18: 0.83 seconds
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The decreasing computation time as age increases reflects the development of cognitive skills and mathematical fluency throughout childhood and adolescence.1 source
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