Zero

Zero (written <math>0</math>) is the additive identity of the real numbers. One is the successor of zero. Its is believed that Indians invented the numerical concept of zero for their trades to the west.

The concept of zero was an important development in mathematics as it provided an easy method to increase magnitude in a simple and consistent manner, an essential prerequisite for advanced mathematics.

In the BC/AD timeline, the year zero is omitted. History proceeds from December 31, 1 BC to January 1, AD 1. This can lead to counting errors when summing up spans of time that cross the transition point, because people often assume the timeline is constructed like the set of integers.