Zero

Zero is a number and the numerical digit used to represent that number in numerals. It fulfills a central role in mathematics as the additive identity of the integers, real numbers, and many other algebraic structures. As a digit, 0 is used as a placeholder in place value systems.

History

The concept of zero as a number and not merely a symbol for separation is attributed to India, where, by the 9th century AD, practical calculations were carried out using zero, which was treated like any other number, even in case of division. The Indian scholar Pingala (circa 5th–2nd century BC) used binary numbers in the form of short and long syllables (the latter equal in length to two short syllables), making it similar to Morse code.

Mathematics

In the context of mathematics, zero is both a number and the numerical digit used to represent that number in numerals. It plays a central role in mathematics as the additive identity of the integers, real numbers, and many other algebraic structures. As a digit, 0 is used as a placeholder in place value systems.

Physics

In physics, zero is often associated with null or nothingness. For example, zero velocity refers to a state of rest, and zero temperature refers to absolute zero, the lowest possible temperature.

Philosophy

In philosophy, zero has been used as a symbol of absolute nothingness or emptiness. It is often associated with the concept of the void or the absence of anything.

See also

• Number theory
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Philosophy

References

Zero Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia