The number "-6" is a negative integer that represents a value six units less than zero. In mathematics, negative numbers are used to indicate values below zero, often in contexts such as temperature, debt, or elevation below sea level. In the context of temperature, for example, -6 degrees Celsius indicates a cold environment, where water would freeze. In finance, a balance of -6 dollars could represent a debt, meaning one owes six dollars. Negative numbers like -6 are essential for various calculations and real-world applications.