Is zero an even number?

Before answering this question, it seems convenient to clarify the understanding of an even number. Actually, the definition of an even number, can only be applied to whole numbers. Thus, a number is even when it is divided by number two and the result is a whole number. If we prefer using the mathematical language, we had better saying that “an even number means a number that can be written as `2n`", with `n` belonging to the set of the whole numbers.

But, after all, is zero an even number?

After having clarified what an even number is, it will be easier to answer this question. And the answer is “yes, it is”. Number zero is even since if we divide zero by two, the result will be a whole number, this is `0 : 2 = 0`. Besides that, if we have in mind the previous definition about what an even number is, we can write number zero as `2n`, since `2 xx 0 = 0`.

Well, I'm not convinced. Could you give me another explanation?

In fact, it is possible to have another thought: within the set composed of all the whole numbers, before an odd number we always find an even one. As zero comes before number one, which is an odd one, it means that zero has to be even. Out of curiosity, some years ago, on the occasion of a hurricane, the Mayor of New York imposed a fuel rationing. According to his directives, the cars whose last numbers of their number plates corresponded to an even number, could only fuel on even days. There was a great confusion when the police did not know whether to allow or not the cars whose numbers plates ended with an even number.

Check out our List of Questions to get to know a little more about the most diverse topics related to mathematics. If you have any pertinent (math) question whose answer can not easily be found, send us an email on the Contact page with the question. We will be happy to respond. In the event that you detect any errors in our answers, do not hesitate to contact us!