A system includes a memory and a node. The memory stores first and second linear string correlithm objects. The node receives first and second real-world numerical values, and identifies a first sub-string correlithm object from the first linear string correlithm object representing the first real-world numerical value and a second sub-string correlithm object from the second linear string correlithm object representing the second real-world numerical value. The node aligns the first and second linear string correlithm objects such that the first sub-string correlithm object aligns with a sub-string correlithm object. The node identifies a sub-string correlithm object from the second linear string correlithm object that represents zero and determines which sub-string correlithm object from the first linear string correlithm object aligns with the identified sub-string correlithm object from the second linear string correlithm object. The node outputs the determined sub-string correlithm object from the first linear string correlithm object.