Additive inverse refers to the opposite of a number that, when added together, equals 0. For example, the additive inverse of 5 is -5, and the inverse of -3 is 3. The additive inverse property is important for solving equations by using the inverse to isolate variables, such as subtracting both sides of an equation by the same amount.

1. Additive Inverse

2. Definition
• Additive inverse means the sum of a number
and its opposite, or additive inverse, is 0.

3. Examples
• 5+(-5)=0
• (-3)+3=0
• If the number is negative your inverse will be
positive, if your number is positive your inverse
will be negative.

4. Why is it important?
• The additive inverse property is important to use
when solving equations. For example when
solving for X or Y, you may need to use the
inverse property for an answer that is a real
number.
• y + 3 = 5x
• In order to isolate the variable, (y) subtract 3
from both sides of the equation. y = 5x - 3