No, negative numbers are not whole numbers.
What are Whole Numbers?
Whole numbers are a set of numbers that include all positive integers from zero to infinity. In simpler terms, they are the counting numbers plus zero.
- Definition: Whole numbers = {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ...}
- Key Characteristics:
- They are non-negative.
- They do not include fractions or decimals.
Why Negative Numbers Aren't Whole Numbers
Negative numbers are less than zero (e.g., -1, -2, -3). Since whole numbers begin at zero and extend only in the positive direction, negative numbers are excluded from the set of whole numbers.
Examples
Here’s a simple illustration:
| Category | Numbers Included |
|---|---|
| Whole Numbers | 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, ... |
| Negative Numbers | -1, -2, -3, -4, ... |
| Not Whole Numbers | -1, -2, -3, 1.5, 2.7, 1/2, 3/4,... |
Conclusion
In summary, because whole numbers are defined as non-negative integers starting from zero, negative numbers do not fit the definition and are therefore not considered whole numbers.
