What is the significance of zero?

  • Thread starter Fx25
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Zero
In summary, the conversation revolves around the concept of zero and its significance in mathematics. One person questions whether zero is anything or if it shouldn't exist, while another points out its usefulness in defining negative numbers. The conversation also mentions a theory about zero's role as the additive identity, which allows for the existence of negative numbers.
  • #1
Fx25
Is zero anything or something then zero shouldn't be there?
For a nothing number it still causes us lot of trouble. Any takers?

I read a theory on the zero which kinda made sense.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Zero is the number that, when added to any other number, leaves that other number unchanged.

I'm not really sure what your question is...
 
  • #3
it's also what you have when you have one apple, and then someone takes it away.
 
  • #4
Originally posted by Fx25
Is zero anything or something then zero shouldn't be there?
For a nothing number it still causes us lot of trouble. Any takers?
Zero also represents an empty digit in numbers that are more than a single digit
I read a theory on the zero which kinda made sense.
Can u tell us about it please ?
Thanks !
 
  • #5
If zero causes us a lot of trouble, then it would cause us far more trouble if it wasn't here. Alot of mathematical concepts are dependent on a meaningful figure called zero. Calculus, far example...
 
  • #6
Zero is the additive identity. If it was not there then how could you define the negative numbers (as opposed to being the additive inverse of positive numbers)?
 
  • #7
:wink: Just thought I'd ask. This theory I read was several years ago, but it stuck out as being odd to me. Thanks.
 

1. What does "zero" mean in mathematics?

In mathematics, zero is a number that represents the absence of quantity or the value between positive and negative numbers. It is often used as a placeholder in numerical systems and plays a crucial role in calculations and equations.

2. What is the historical significance of zero?

The concept of zero has a rich history and has been used in various ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and the Babylonians. It was first introduced as a mathematical concept by the Indian mathematician Brahmagupta in the 7th century and later popularized by the Arabic mathematician Al-Khwarizmi in the 9th century.

3. How does the concept of zero impact scientific research?

The concept of zero is essential in scientific research as it allows us to measure and compare quantities accurately. It is also used in many scientific theories and equations, such as thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.

4. What is the significance of zero in computer science?

In computer science, zero is used as a binary digit, or bit, to represent the absence of an electrical signal. It is also used in coding and programming to represent null values and empty spaces, making it a fundamental concept in computer science.

5. How does zero impact our daily lives?

Zero has a significant impact on our daily lives, from the way we count and measure to the technology we use. It allows us to accurately describe and understand the world around us, and without it, many scientific and technological advancements would not be possible.

Similar threads

  • General Math
2
Replies
47
Views
2K
  • General Math
Replies
31
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
7
Views
428
Replies
4
Views
523
  • General Math
Replies
5
Views
761
  • General Math
Replies
7
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • General Math
2
Replies
64
Views
7K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
758
Back
Top