Zero Zero shows that there is no amount. Example: 6 − 6 = 0 (the difference between six and six is zero) It is also used as a "placeholder" so we can write a numeral properly. Example: 502 (five hundred and two) could be mistaken for 52 (fifty two) without the zero in the tens place., 0 is the integer that precedes the positive 1, and follows −1. In most numerical systems, 0 was identified before the idea of "negative integers" was accepted., Zero represents the absence of quantity and serves as the dividing point between positive and negative numbers. Learn its unique mathematical properties, including its behavior in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, along with practical examples., Is zero a number? Check out our complete guide to the number 0 to understand how it works in math., The Origins of the Zero Overview The zero was invented three times in the history of the mathematics. The Babylonians, the Maya, and the Hindus all invented a symbol to represent nothing. However, only the Hindus came to understand the importance of what the zero represented. Today we use a descendant of the Hindu zero, which had a long journey and encountered much resistance until finally , 0 is the integer that precedes the positive 1, and follows −1. In most (if not all) numerical systems, 0 was identified before the idea of 'negative integers' was accepted..