- Definition: Numbers less than zero
- Symbol: Written with a minus sign in front (−5, −10, −100)
- Position: Appear to the left of 0 on a number line
- Size: The further left, the smaller the number (−8 < −3 < 0 < 3)
-5
-4
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4
5
← Smaller numbers Larger numbers →
This key facts covers What Are Negative Numbers? within Negative Numbers for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Negative Numbers in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 2 of 14 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Negative Numbers
Which of these statements is true?
Aisha's bank account shows a balance of -45 pounds. She deposits 70 pounds. Explain what her new balance is and what the negative sign meant originally.
Quick recall flashcards
Double Negative Rule
Subtracting a negative = Adding. Two minuses make a plus: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8
Using a number line
Draw a horizontal line with 0 in the middle. Negative numbers go LEFT, positive RIGHT. Moving right = adding, moving left = subtracting.