Integers and the Number Line
Integers include all whole numbers and their negatives: ..., -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, ... They are used to represent values below zero such as temperatures, depths, and debts.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
Integers include positive numbers, negative numbers, and zero
On a number line, numbers increase from left to right; negative numbers are to the left of zero
Adding a negative number is the same as subtracting: 5 + (-3) = 5 - 3 = 2
Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding: 5 - (-3) = 5 + 3 = 8
Multiplying or dividing two integers with the same sign gives a positive result; opposite signs give a negative result
Key Vocabulary
Integer
Any whole number, either positive, negative or zero: ..., -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, ...
Absolute Value
The distance of a number from zero on the number line; always positive. |−5| = 5
Negative Number
A number less than zero, written with a minus sign (e.g. -7)
Additive Inverse
The opposite of a number; when added together they equal zero: 3 + (-3) = 0
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
Calculate: (-4) + (-6)
Question 2
Calculate: 8 - (-3)
Question 3
What is (-5) x (-4)?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●Integers include positive numbers, negative numbers, and zero
- ●On a number line, numbers increase from left to right; negative numbers are to the left of zero
- ●Adding a negative number is the same as subtracting: 5 + (-3) = 5 - 3 = 2
- ●Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding: 5 - (-3) = 5 + 3 = 8
- ●Multiplying or dividing two integers with the same sign gives a positive result; opposite signs give a negative result