The additive inverse of a number is defined as the value that, when added to the original number, yields zero. In simpler terms, it is the opposite of that number.
For the number 7, its additive inverse is -7. This is because:
7 + (-7) = 0So when you add 7 and -7 together, you get 0, which confirms that -7 is indeed the additive inverse of 7.
Understanding additive inverses is important in mathematics, particularly in algebra, as it helps in solving equations and understanding properties of numbers. The concept can also be applied in various mathematical operations and real-world scenarios, where balancing out values is necessary.