Every number has a partner
Fold a paper number line at zero. The mark 3 touches the mark −3.
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Step 1 of 4
- A line with zero in the middle.
- Mark 3.
- Fold at zero. 3 touches −3.
- Same distance, other side.
The rule
The opposite of a number is the same distance from zero. The opposite is on the other side of zero.
The opposite of 6 is −6. The opposite of −6 is 6. Zero is 0 steps from zero. So zero is its own opposite.
Example
The opposite of 5 is −5. The opposite of −5 is 5. Taking the opposite twice gives 5 again.