The set of negative integers encompasses all whole numbers less than zero.
In more detail:
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Definition: The set of negative integers consists of all integers that are strictly less than zero. This means they are negative counterparts to the natural numbers (positive integers).
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Representation: This set can be represented as follows:
{-1, -2, -3, -4, ...}
This set extends infinitely in the negative direction.
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Key Characteristics:
- They are whole numbers.
- They are less than zero.
- They do not include zero itself.
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Relationship to Natural Numbers: Negative integers are the additive inverses of natural numbers (positive integers). For example, -1 is the additive inverse of 1 because 1 + (-1) = 0.
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Examples: -5, -100, -1, -2345 are all examples of negative integers.
Therefore, the set of negative integers is the collection of all negative whole numbers.
