Number Line

A number line is a horizontal straight line used to represent numbers visually. Numbers are placed along the line at equal intervals with a vertical segment at each interval.

The arrows in the line indicate that the line extends infinitely on the left- and right-hand sides. Numbers increase in value from left to right on the number line.

Natural Numbers on a Number Line

Natural numbers can be represented on a number line starting from 1. Then, 2, 3, 4, and so on, are marked at equal distances along the line to the right of 1.

Whole Numbers on a Number Line

A number line can also be used to represent whole numbers. The line begins at 0 and the rest of the whole numbers are drawn along the line to the right.

Keep in mind that all natural numbers are whole numbers, but not all whole numbers are natural numbers.

Integer Numbers on a Number Line

A number line can display integer numbers by extending the line to the left- and right-hand sides of 0. The positive integers, or natural numbers, are to the right of 0, and the negative integers are to the left of 0.

Real Numbers on a Number Line

Real numbers can be also represented by unique points on the number line.

Each real number is represented by a point called a coordinate on the real number line. The number 0 is called the origin. Positive real numbers are to the right of 0, and negative real numbers are to the left of 0.