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In mathematics, a negative number is a real number that is less than zero. It is represented by a minus sign (-) preceding the number. Negative numbers are used to indicate a deficit, debt, or a position below a reference point, such as sea level or zero degrees on a thermometer.1

The minus sign is also used to denote subtraction. For example, in the equation 8 - 6 = 2, the minus sign indicates subtraction. When used before a number, like -10°, it signifies a negative quantity. The concept of negative numbers is fundamental in various mathematical operations and real-world applications, representing quantities opposite to positive ones.12

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