The additive inverse is the opposite of a number that, when added together, equals 0. For example, the additive inverse of 5 is -5, and the additive 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 to solve equations. For example when
solving for X or Y you may need to use the
inverse property for an answer that’s a real
number.
• Y+3=5x
• In order to isolate variable (y) subtract 3 from
both sides of the equation. y=5x-3