What is the additive inverse of zero?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the additive inverse of zero, which refers to the number that, when added to zero, results in zero. This involves understanding basic arithmetic properties.
Answer
The additive inverse of zero is $0$.
Answer for screen readers
The additive inverse of zero is $0$.
Steps to Solve
- Identify the definition of the additive inverse
The additive inverse of a number $x$ is defined as the number $y$ such that $x + y = 0$.
- Apply the definition to zero
We need to find the number $y$ such that $0 + y = 0$.
- Solve for the additive inverse
To find $y$, we can rewrite the equation:
$$ 0 + y = 0 $$
This implies that $y$ must be 0, because adding zero to zero gives zero.
The additive inverse of zero is $0$.
More Information
The concept of an additive inverse is essential in mathematics, particularly in algebra, as it helps in solving equations. Since zero is unique in this sense, its own additive inverse is also itself.
Tips
- Confusing the additive inverse with the opposite sign. The additive inverse is based on the result being zero, while the opposite sign refers to changing the number's sign.
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