7th Grade · The Number System
Zero Pair
7.NS.A.1a
Definition
A set of two numbers (one positive, one negative) that sum to zero. Used in chip models to simplify integer addition.
Examples
- (+5) + (-5) = 0 — five zero pairs cancel out.
- (+7) + (-4): remove 4 zero pairs, leaving +3.
Key rule
Each zero pair cancels; count what is left.
Memory hook
One positive + one negative = zero.