What term describes the number that, when added to any number, results in that number?

What term describes the number that, when added to any number, results in that number?

• A. Additive identity
• B. Multiplicative identity
• C. Null identity
• D. Negative identity

Answer: (A)

The term that describes the number which, when added to any number, results in that number is known as the additive identity. In mathematics, the additive identity is 0. This means that for any number \( x \), the equation \( x + 0 = x \) holds true. The concept of additive identity is fundamental in arithmetic and algebra, as it establishes the baseline value that does not change the outcome when combined with other numbers. To reinforce the understanding, consider how this identity operates in practice: if you take any number, say 5, and add 0 to it, the result remains 5 (i.e., \( 5 + 0 = 5 \)). This property is essential for maintaining the integrity of numerical calculations and underpins many mathematical operations. The other terms in the options refer to different mathematical concepts. The multiplicative identity refers to the number 1, which when multiplied by any number returns that number (e.g., \( 7 \times 1 = 7 \)). Null identity and negative identity do not correspond to standard mathematical terminology in the context of basic arithmetic operations. Thus, the additive identity is the correct term for the property described in the question.

The term that describes the number which, when added to any number, results in that number is known as the additive identity. In mathematics, the additive identity is 0. This means that for any number ( x ), the equation ( x + 0 = x ) holds true. The concept of additive identity is fundamental in arithmetic and algebra, as it establishes the baseline value that does not change the outcome when combined with other numbers.

To reinforce the understanding, consider how this identity operates in practice: if you take any number, say 5, and add 0 to it, the result remains 5 (i.e., ( 5 + 0 = 5 )). This property is essential for maintaining the integrity of numerical calculations and underpins many mathematical operations.

The other terms in the options refer to different mathematical concepts. The multiplicative identity refers to the number 1, which when multiplied by any number returns that number (e.g., ( 7 \times 1 = 7 )). Null identity and negative identity do not correspond to standard mathematical terminology in the context of basic arithmetic operations. Thus, the additive identity is the correct term for the property described in the question.