7th Grade · The Number System
Opposite
7.NS.A.1c
Definition
A number the same distance from 0 but on the other side of the number line. The opposite of n is -n, and the opposite of a negative is positive: -(-n) = n.
Examples
- The opposite of 6 is -6.
- -(-5) = +5 (a double negative), and the opposite of 0 is 0.
Key rule
To find the opposite, change the sign.
Memory hook
Same distance, other side of zero.