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The Definition of Positive Numbers

Positive numbers are used in counting and expressing quantity as well as in mathematical operations such as addition, subtractions, multiplication and division. According to the Science Encyclopedia website, all numbers greater than zero are called positive numbers and positive numbers are always to the right of zero on the number line. For each positive number, according to MathLeague.com, there is a negative number that is its opposite. This website explains there is an equal space between each number on the number line so size comparisons can be made. Any two numbers can be compared by examining their position on the number line because numbers on the right are always greater than numbers on the left.
  1. Adding Positive Numbers

    • Positive numbers can be added together if counting two quantities in separate bins, increasing a price or figuring total price plus the tip. Add two positive numbers by moving in equal increments to the right on the number line. For example, if performing the math problem 2+3=5, start at the 2 on the number line and move three spaces to the right to arrive at the number 5.

    Subtracting Positive Numbers

    • Positive numbers are subtracted when calculating the sales price, revising amount owed after a payment, or figuring out how much food is left after your family has eaten what is the cupboard for two days. Subtract two positive numbers by moving in equal increments to the left on the number line. For example, if doing the problem 10--3=7, start at the 10 and move three spaces to the left, arriving at the number 7.

    Multiplying Positive Numbers

    • Multiplication is really a short form of addition. For example, the problem 2x3, really means to add two together three times. Because 2+2+2=6, 2x3=6. Positive numbers are commonly multiplied both in business and in the home.

    Dividing Positive Numbers

    • Dividing is another short form of addition. Use division to figure out how many parts of something equal a whole. Divide positive numbers by figuring out how many times the divisor goes into the dividend. In the example, 10/5, the dividend is 10 and the divisor is 5. Because 5+5=10, five goes into 10 twice. Therefore 10/5=2.


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