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., Is zero a number? Check out our complete guide to the number 0 to understand how it works in math., 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., 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., Zero is the integer denoted 0 that, when used as a counting number, means that no objects are present. It is the only integer (and, in fact, the only real number) that is neither negative nor positive..