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.
What Are Negative Numbers?
- 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 →
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.