Identity Elements Math Example 1

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 1

easy
Show that adding 0 to any number doesn't change it. Verify with \(14 + 0\) and \(0 + 14\).

Solution

  1. 1
    \(14 + 0 = 14\). Adding nothing changes nothing.
  2. 2
    \(0 + 14 = 14\). Same result.
  3. 3
    The identity element for addition is 0: \(a + 0 = 0 + a = a\).

Answer

14 in both cases
Zero is the additive identity. Adding 0 to any number leaves it unchanged. It is like adding an empty set.

About Identity Elements

Special numbers that leave any other number unchanged under a given operation: 0 for addition, 1 for multiplication.

Learn more about Identity Elements →

More Identity Elements Examples

Example 2 medium

Show that multiplying any number by 1 doesn't change it. Use (23 times 1) and (1 times 23). Also sho

Example 3 easy

What is (387 + 0)? What property does this demonstrate?

Example 4 medium

Fill in the blank and name the property: (456 times square = 456) and (456 times square = 0).

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