Integers

Integers form one of the most fundamental number systems in mathematics. The set of integers includes all positive whole numbers, all negative whole numbers, and zero. Unlike natural numbers or whole numbers, integers extend infinitely in both directions on the number line — from negative infinity to positive infinity. The set of integers is denoted by the symbol Z and is written as: {..., −4, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, ...}

Understanding integers is critical because the real world is full of situations that require numbers below zero — temperatures below freezing, debts, depths below sea level, elevations below sea level, and scores in games where you can lose points. Integers give us the mathematical language to describe and calculate in these real-world scenarios.