Positive and negative numbers are fundamental elements in understanding integers. Integers encompass all whole numbers, including zero, along with their positive and negative counterparts. Positive numbers are above zero and often represent quantities or measures more than a neutral point. Think of them as representing gains or elevations, much like Mount Everest's height is a positive integer due to its towering stature above sea level.
Negative numbers, on the other hand, are less than zero, typically reflecting losses, depths, or reductions. For instance, they could illustrate debts, valleys, or temperatures below freezing. When working with positive and negative numbers, it's crucial to know:
- Addition and subtraction involving negatives requires careful attention to signs.
- Negatives can flip the direction of comparison; for example, \( -5 < 0 \), though 5 is greater than 0."
- Multiplying or dividing two negative numbers yields a positive result, while a positive and a negative product remains negative."