Integers

In mathematics, numbers are always classified. (See the classification of numbers.) When individuals use the term integers, they are referring to positive and or negative numbers. Therefore, simply put, integers are positive or negative numbers, but they aren't fractions or parts of numbers. 0 is an integer, however, it is not positive or negative.  Any number to the right of zero is considered a positive integer and number left than zero is considered to be a negative integer.


Basics of Integers

• There are even and odd integers. Even integers can be divided by 2 (2,4,6,8,10...) and odd integers cannot be divided by 2 (3,5,7,9...)
• 0 is considered to be an even integer
• You can quickly determine if large integers are even or odd by dividing the number by 2
• Fractions are not odd or even and are not considered integers
• Consecutive integers refer to the order of integers and will occur in an increasing order from any integer (-4, -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3) or (21, 22, 23, 24) etc.
• 0 is considered both an integer and a whole number
• There is a definite order for adding, subtracting, dividing and multiplying integers
• When 0 is added or subtracted from any number, it will not change the value of the number
• When 0 is multiplied by any number, the answer will be 0
• To truly understand integers, it is helpful to use a number line or think of numbers on a thermometer

To help further enhance your understanding of integers, you may wish to view this video which refers to integers using a number line.