Question

Plot the number -25 on the number line.

Short answer

-25 is plotted 25 units to the left of zero on the number line.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Number Line

A number line is a straight line with numbers placed at equal intervals along its length. It can include both positive and negative numbers, as well as zero, with negative numbers to the left of zero and positive numbers to the right.

Locate Zero

Identify the position of zero on the number line. Zero is typically marked at the center.

Determine the Placement of -25

Since -25 is a negative number, it will be to the left of zero. The further left a number is from zero, the smaller (more negative) it is.

Count Leftward from Zero

Starting at zero, count 25 units to the left to locate -25. You can mark each integer as you count to ensure accuracy.

Plot the Number

Plot the number -25 on the number line at the location you determined by counting 25 units to the left of zero. Mark this spot with a point and label it '-25'.

Key concepts

Understanding Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are values less than zero. On a number line, they are always found to the left of zero.
For example, -1, -5, and -25 are all negative numbers. The more we move left on a number line, the smaller the value becomes.
Negative numbers play an essential role in various real-life scenarios, such as measuring temperatures below freezing or banking (debt).
Visualizing them on a number line helps us understand their relative values and positions compared to positive numbers.

Plotting Integers on the Number Line

To properly place an integer on a number line, follow these steps:

• Start by identifying zero, usually found at the center.
• Move right to represent positive integers and left for negative integers.
• Count each unit space carefully to ensure accuracy.

For instance, in placing -25, begin at zero and count 25 spaces to the left. This systematic method ensures that all numbers are correctly placed, aiding in visual accuracy and comprehension.
Remember, counting each unit one by one helps avoid mistakes and ensures every integer has the correct position.

Visual Representation on a Number Line

Visual representation using a number line transforms abstract numbers into tangible points. This technique is especially helpful for understanding the concepts of positive and negative integers.
A number line itself is straightforward: a horizontal line marked with evenly spaced intervals.

• Zero is often the central reference point, with positive integers extending to the right.
• Negative integers, like -25, extend to the left of zero.

By plotting numbers manually, you can clearly see how they relate to each other. For -25, you’d place a dot 25 spaces left from zero and label it.
This visualization fosters a better understanding of the relative sizes and distances between numbers.