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What does the inverse property relate to in addition?

  1. Adding a number to itself

  2. Finding a number that results in zero when added

  3. A number multiplied by zero

  4. Subtracting the original number

The correct answer is: Finding a number that results in zero when added

The inverse property in addition specifically refers to the concept of finding a number that, when added to the original number, results in zero. In mathematical terms, for any real number \( x \), the number \( -x \) is considered the additive inverse. When you add \( x \) and \( -x \), the sum is zero (i.e., \( x + (-x) = 0 \)). This property is essential in algebra and arithmetic as it underpins the idea of solving equations and maintaining balance on both sides of an equation. This understanding is foundational to higher mathematics and relates to the broader concept of inverse operations, where each operation has a corresponding inverse that undoes its effect. The other options, while related to numbers or operations, do not capture the essence of the additive inverse in a way that establishes their connection to the property in question.