Negative Numbers and Integers

Negative numbers and integers are an important concept in mathematics. They are numbers that are less than zero and are denoted with a negative sign (-) in front of them. In this article, we will explain the concept of negative numbers and integers in detail.

Definition of Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are numbers that are less than zero. They are used to represent quantities that are below a given reference point. For example, if you owe someone money, the amount you owe would be represented by a negative number. Negative numbers are denoted with a minus sign (-) in front of them. For instance, -5 represents a negative number.

Definition of Integers

Integers are a set of numbers that include both positive and negative whole numbers, including zero. They are denoted by the symbol "Z" and can be represented on a number line. Integers can be positive, negative, or zero.

Properties of Negative Numbers and Integers

- Addition: When adding two negative numbers, the result is a negative number. For example, (-3) + (-5) = -8. When adding a positive and a negative number, we subtract their absolute values and attach the sign of the number with the greater absolute value. For example, (-3) + 5 = 2.

- Subtraction: When subtracting a positive number from a negative number, we add their absolute values and attach the sign of the number with the greater absolute value. For example, (-5) - 3 = -8. When subtracting a negative number, it is equivalent to adding the absolute values of the numbers. For example, (-5) - (-3) = -5 + 3 = -2.

- Multiplication: When multiplying two negative numbers, the result is a positive number. For example, (-2) * (-3) = 6. When multiplying a positive and a negative number, the result is a negative number. For example, (-2) * 3 = -6.

- Division: When dividing a negative number by a positive number or vice versa, the result is a negative number. For example, (-8) / 2 = -4. When dividing two negative numbers or two positive numbers, the result is a positive number. For example, (-8) / (-2) = 4.

Conclusion

Understanding negative numbers and integers is essential in mathematics. They represent quantities below zero and are denoted with a negative sign. Negative numbers and integers follow specific rules when performing operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These rules help us solve mathematical problems involving negative numbers and integers.

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