101 LearnersLast updated on 30 August 2025
Subtraction of Negative Integers
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two negative numbers is known as the subtraction of negative integers. This operation helps simplify mathematical calculations and solve problems involving negative values and arithmetic operations.
What is Subtraction of Negative Integers?
Subtracting negative integers involves adding the additive inverse of the second integer to the first.
In essence, it requires changing the subtraction operation into an addition operation by flipping the sign of the integer being subtracted.
This simplifies calculations and prevents mistakes during subtraction.
How to do Subtraction of Negative Integers?
When subtracting negative integers, students should follow these steps:
Change to addition: Convert the subtraction of a negative number into an addition problem by flipping the sign of the integer being subtracted.
Simplify: Perform the addition operation with the adjusted integers to find the result.
Methods to do Subtraction of Negative Integers
The following methods can be used for subtracting negative integers:
Method 1: Number Line Method
Use a number line to visualize the subtraction of negative integers.
Start at the first number, and move to the right if subtracting a negative number (since it becomes addition).
Method 2: Direct Calculation
Simply change the subtraction to addition by adjusting the sign of the second integer, and then perform the addition to find the result.
Properties of Subtraction of Negative Integers
Subtraction of negative integers has the following properties:
Subtraction is not commutative Changing the order of the integers changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A.
Subtraction is not associative Regrouping terms in subtraction changes the result, i.e., (A − B) − C ≠ A − (B − C).
Subtracting a negative integer is the same as adding its positive counterpart A − (−B) = A + B.
Subtracting zero from an integer leaves the integer unchanged A - 0 = A.
Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Negative Integers
Here are some tips and tricks to efficiently handle the subtraction of negative integers:
Tip 1: Always convert the problem into an addition problem by changing the sign of the second integer.
Tip 2: Use a number line for visual understanding, especially for beginners.
Tip 3: Remember that subtracting a negative is equivalent to adding a positive, simplifying calculations.
Forgetting to change the operation
Students often forget to convert subtraction into addition by changing the sign of the second integer.Always remember this step to simplify calculations.
Mistake 1
Incorrect sign usage
Using incorrect signs can lead to wrong results.Ensure that the sign of the second integer is flipped correctly when converting subtraction to addition.
Mistake 2
Confusion with number line direction
When using a number line, students might move in the wrong direction.Always remember that subtracting a negative means moving to the right.
Mistake 3
Ignoring zero
When zero is involved, students might overcomplicate the calculation.Remember that subtracting zero leaves the integer unchanged.
Mistake 4
Misunderstanding the concept of additive inverse
The additive inverse concept can be confusing.Always remember that the additive inverse of a negative number is its positive counterpart.
Mistake 5
Examples of Subtraction of Negative Integers
Subtract -3 from -7
-4
Problem 1
Convert the operation: (-7) - (-3) = (-7) + 3 Perform the addition: -7 + 3 = -4
Subtract -8 from -2
Explanation
6
Problem 2
Convert the operation: (-2) - (-8) = (-2) + 8 Perform the addition: -2 + 8 = 6
Subtract -5 from -10
Explanation
-5
Problem 3
Convert the operation: (-10) - (-5) = (-10) + 5 Perform the addition: -10 + 5 = -5
Subtract -12 from -4
Explanation
8
Problem 4
Convert the operation: (-4) - (-12) = (-4) + 12 Perform the addition: -4 + 12 = 8
Subtract -15 from -9
Explanation
6
Yes, subtracting a negative integer from a positive integer is equivalent to adding the absolute value of the negative integer to the positive integer.
1.Is subtraction of negative integers commutative?
2.What is the first step in subtracting negative integers?
3.How does the number line method help in subtraction?
4.What is the additive inverse of a negative integer?
5.How can children in Indonesia use numbers in everyday life to understand Subtraction of Negative Integers?
6.What are some fun ways kids in Indonesia can practice Subtraction of Negative Integers with numbers?
7.What role do numbers and Subtraction of Negative Integers play in helping children in Indonesia develop problem-solving skills?
8.How can families in Indonesia create number-rich environments to improve Subtraction of Negative Integers skills?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Negative Integers
Subtraction involving negative integers can be tricky, leading to common mistakes.Awareness of these errors helps students avoid them.
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana
About the Author
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana has almost two years of teaching experience. She is a number ninja as she loves numbers. Her interest in numbers can be seen in the way she cracks math puzzles and hidden patterns.
Fun Fact
: She loves to read number jokes and games.
