Adding and Subtracting Integers and Rational Numbers

Vocabulary flashcards covering core terms, operational rules, and definitions for adding and subtracting integers and rational numbers.

Absolute value

The distance (in units) that a number is from $0$ expressed as a positive quantity, written as $|x|$.

Additive inverse

The opposite of a number, where subtracting a rational number is equivalent to adding its opposite: $p - q = p + (-q)$.

Subtrahend

The number that you subtract in a subtraction problem.

Distance between two rational numbers

The absolute value of the difference between two rational numbers on a number line.

Rule for adding integers with like signs

Add the absolute values of the addends and use the sign of the addends for the sum.

Rule for adding integers with unlike signs

Subtract the lesser absolute value from the greater absolute value, and use the sign of the addend with the greater absolute value for the sum.

Rule for subtracting integers

Add the opposite (additive inverse) of the subtrahend.

Adding a positive number (number line movement)

A movement to the right on the number line.

Adding a negative number (number line movement)

A movement to the left on the number line.

Plus/minus statistic (hockey)

A performance statistic calculated by subtracting the number of minuses (goals scored against) from the number of pluses (goals scored) while a player is on the ice.