Additive Inverses Equal Zero
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Objective
I can explain why the sum of a number and its additive inverse is zero.
Part 1 of 3
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
For any real number 'a', its additive inverse, denoted as -a, is the unique number that, when added to 'a', results in zero.
- 2
On the number line, a number 'a' and its additive inverse '-a' represent equal displacement but in opposite directions, causing them to cancel each other out and return to zero.
- 3
The sum a + (-a) = 0 formally states the additive inverse axiom, where zero is the unique additive identity element.
Part 2 of 3
Practice
3 questions
Define what an additive inverse is for any given real number 'a', and state the result when 'a' is added to its additive inverse.
Using the analogy of a number line, explain why the sum of a number and its additive inverse is zero.
Part 3 of 3
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Using the concepts from the reading passage, explain why the sum of a number and its additive inverse is always zero.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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