What must be subtracted from `-3` to get `-9`?

Options

A. `-6`
B. `12`
C. `6`
D. `-12`

Answer

To solve the question "What must be subtracted from -3 to get -9?", we can set up the equation as follows:

1. **Set up the equation**: Let \( x \) be the number that must be subtracted from -3. The equation can be written as:
\[ -3 - x = -9 \]

2. **Isolate \( x \)**: To find \( x \), we need to isolate it on one side of the equation. We can do this by adding \( x \) to both sides and also adding 9 to both sides:
\[ -3 + 9 = x \]

3. **Calculate**: Now, simplify the left side:
\[ 6 = x \]

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the number that must be subtracted from -3 to get -9 is:
\[ x = 6 \]

### Summary of Steps:
1. Set up the equation: \( -3 - x = -9 \)
2. Isolate \( x \): \( -3 + 9 = x \)
3. Calculate: \( x = 6 \)