Negative Numbers & Directed Number Line

Explore quantities below zero. Visualize altitude above and ocean depth below sea level, and trace directed mathematical transitions using vector arrows.

Interactive Physics

Submarine Ballast & Altimeter

Positive and negative values represent opposite directions from a reference zero. In this simulation, sea level is 0. Altitude is positive (+), and depth below the surface is negative (-). Adjust ballast to translate our research vehicle.

Position Coordinate

y = 0 m (Sea Level)
Adjust Ballast (Altitude / Depth) 0 m
Absolute Value (Magnitude):
The absolute value of y, denoted as |y|, measures its distance from zero, ignoring direction.

|0| = 0 meters (Distance from sea level)
Number Line Sandbox

Directed Vector Operations

Adding positive numbers moves to the right (increasing). Adding negative numbers (or subtracting positive numbers) changes direction and moves to the left (decreasing).

Equation Output

0 + 0 = 0
Starting Point (Value A) -2
Operation
Offset/Vector (Value B) +5
Visual Vector Logic:
Starting at coordinate -2. Adding positive +5 draws a vector arrow pointing to the right, completing at final coordinate 3.
Self Evaluation

Directed Math Quiz

Test your conceptual understanding of directed arithmetic, negative inequalities, and absolute values.

Question 1 of 5 Score: 0/0

What is the absolute value of -42?

Correct Answer!

Explanation goes here.

Focus Area Vocabulary


  • Absolute Value: |x| (Magnitude only)
  • Origin Point: Reference Zero (0)
  • Negative Vector: Moves Left (←)
  • Double Negative: -(-b) → +b (Moves Right →)