In terms of mathematics, which operation typically combines two numbers to find a total?

Addition is the operation that combines two numbers to determine a total. When you add two numbers, you are essentially grouping them together to find the sum, which represents the whole amount when both numbers are considered together. For instance, if you have 3 apples and receive 2 more, adding these amounts gives you a total of 5 apples. This operation is fundamental in mathematics and serves as one of the core functions for developing numerical understanding and performing calculations in various real-world contexts.

The other operations—subtraction, division, and multiplication—serve different purposes. Subtraction is used to find the difference between numbers, division breaks down quantities into equal parts, and multiplication is a form of repeated addition. Each operation has its unique role, but for combining two values to find a total, addition is the clear and appropriate choice.