The given expression is:

$-1.3 + (-4.9) + (-2.6)$

We need to determine which of the multiple-choice expressions is equivalent to this.

Simplifying the given expression:

1. $-1.3 + (-4.9)$ simplifies to $-1.3 - 4.9 = -6.2$.
2. Now, $-6.2 + (-2.6)$ simplifies to $-6.2 - 2.6 = -8.8$.

We need to check which of the options represents this expression in a different but equivalent form.

• Option 1: $(1.3 + 4.9 + 2.6)$ – This is not correct because all terms are positive.
• Option 2: $-1.3 - (4.9 + 2.6)$ – Let's verify:
  • $4.9 + 2.6 = 7.5$, and then $-1.3 - 7.5 = -8.8$, which is correct.
• Option 3: $-1.3 + (4.9 + 2.6)$ – This results in a positive value for the terms inside the parentheses, which doesn't match.
• Option 4: $-(1.3 - 4.9) + (-2.6)$ – This simplifies as:
  • $1.3 - 4.9 = -3.6$, and then $-(-3.6) + (-2.6) = 3.6 - 2.6 = 1.0$, which is incorrect.

Conclusion:

The correct equivalent expression is the second option:

$-1.3 - (4.9 + 2.6)$

Do you need any further details on the solution, or would you like help with another problem?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How can you simplify expressions involving negative numbers?
2. What is the order of operations in arithmetic?
3. How do parentheses affect the calculation of an expression?
4. What is the difference between adding and subtracting negative numbers?
5. Can you provide examples of real-world scenarios where negative numbers are used?

Tip: When working with negative numbers, it's helpful to think of subtraction as adding the opposite to avoid confusion.