What is a requirement for performing addition and subtraction?

The requirement for performing addition and subtraction centers around the concept of having the same name or denomination. This principle is critical when dealing with units of measurement or different types of quantities. For instance, when adding or subtracting lengths, you need all measurements to be expressed in the same unit, such as inches or centimeters, to ensure an accurate calculation. If you have lengths in different units, you must first convert them to the same unit before proceeding with the arithmetic operation.

This principle also extends to other mathematical contexts, including adding or subtracting fractions, where the fractions must have a common denominator to facilitate the operation. By ensuring that the quantities are in the same denomination, you maintain the integrity of the mathematical processes, allowing for valid and meaningful results.

Other criteria mentioned, such as requiring numbers to be whole, positive, or even, are not necessary for basic addition and subtraction. These operations can be performed with integers, decimals, negative numbers, and various numeric types without limitation to specific characteristics like being whole, positive, or even.