Integers Definition With Easy Examples | What Are Integers

Definition Of Integers

Integers are a set of natural numbers that include zero and negative natural numbers.
For example:…,-3,-2,-1,0, 1, 2, 3,…. We can write an integer as a product of prime numbers. Also we can find the HCF and LCM of two integers by first writing each one as a product of prime numbers.
The collection of integers is symbolized by Z, where Z stands for Zahlen, which means “to count.”

Types of Integers

After understanding the Integers definition, let’s understand different types of Integers. There are 3 types of Integers, which are explained below:

1. Positive integers (Z+)
2. Negative Integers (Z-)
3. Zero Integer (0)

Positive Integers:

Any number greater than zero is referred to as a positive number, and in this context, positive integers are counting numbers or natural numbers. It is represented by the symbol ‘Z+’. Positive integers are found on the number line to the right of zero.

As an example: Z+ = { 1, 2, 3,…,∞ }

Negative Integers:

Any number less than zero is considered a negative number, and the negative of natural numbers is referred to as a negative integer. They are denoted by the letter ‘Z-‘. The negative integers are on the number line to the left of zero.

For instance – Z- = {-∞,…,-3,-2,-1}

Zero Integer

Zero (0) is neither positive nor negative. It is referred to as a neutral number for a reason: it lacks the signs ‘+’ and ‘-‘.

Important: Negative integers are also known as the additive inverses of positive integers.

Integers on a Number Line

Video Explanation of Integers

FAQ: Integers Definition

Like Integers definition, if you want to know about the Definition of natural numbers, then please check this article –What are Natural Numbers?