Fact check: What is 598 - 1

1. Summary of the results

The original question asks for a simple arithmetic calculation: 598 - 1. While none of the sources directly provide this specific calculation, the mathematical principles needed to solve it are well-established.

Based on basic subtraction principles referenced in the elementary arithmetic source ^[1], subtracting 1 from any number results in the immediate predecessor of that number. Therefore, 598 - 1 = 597.

One source specifically mentions properties of the number 598 and notes that "subtracting 1 from 598 would result in 597" ^[2], confirming this straightforward calculation.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks any mathematical context that might be relevant:

• Number system context: The sources don't specify, but this calculation assumes base-10 (decimal) arithmetic, which is the standard system for everyday mathematics ^[1]
• Mathematical properties: The result, 597, would have its own unique mathematical properties distinct from 598, though these weren't explored in the provided analyses ^[2]
• Educational context: This appears to be a basic arithmetic problem that would typically be taught in elementary mathematics curricula ^[1]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

There is no misinformation or bias in the original statement. The question "what is 598 - 1" is a straightforward mathematical inquiry requesting a factual calculation.

The question is mathematically unambiguous and has only one correct answer in standard arithmetic. The sources confirm that basic subtraction operations like this follow well-established mathematical principles ^[1], and there are no alternative interpretations or controversial aspects to this simple arithmetic problem.