Simplify each of the following expressions to find the length of the tightrope.

1. $5+2+8$

   Answer (a):

   $5+2+8=15$

2. $4+9+3$

   Answer (b):

   $4+9+3=16$

3. $7+3+2+(−4)$

   Hint (c):

   Pay attention to the negative. Remember those are like backward steps.

4. $8+6+2+(−5)$

   Answer (d):

   $8+6+2+(−5)=11$