I think the the question is pretty self explanatory.
With positive numbers you can let’s say put 3 balls in a box and there you have it, a representation of the positive number 3.
Same goes with 0, a box with 0 balls represent the amount 0.
But how do you do that with a negative number?
In: 0
Now let’s say you want to represent not just the number of balls in a basket but more specifically the number of balls that you own. If you borrowed 3 balls (so you owe 3 balls to someone else), then the number is -3. That’s actually how it’s done in accounting.
And let’s say you don’t want to just describe lengths but also direction. In one direction numbers are positive and in the opposite direction they are negative… and for movements on a 2-D plane you just add another axis. That’s actually how it’s done in reality.
I just ELI5-ed a concept that is learned in primary school if not earlier 🫤
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