The numbers -2, -1, 0, 1 are part of the integer set, which includes whole numbers that can be positive, negative, or zero. In this sequence, -2 and -1 are negative integers, representing values less than zero. The number 0 is a unique integer that acts as a neutral point, separating positive numbers from negative ones. The number 1 is the smallest positive integer. These numbers are often used in various mathematical operations, such as addition and subtraction, and they help in understanding concepts like temperature, elevation, and financial balances.