Last updated on July 28th, 2025
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two decimal numbers is known as the subtraction of decimals. It helps solve real-world problems that involve measurements, money, and other quantities expressed in decimal form.
Subtracting decimals involves aligning the decimal points and then subtracting as you would with whole numbers. This requires careful attention to place value. The components of decimal subtraction include: -
Decimal numbers: These can include whole numbers and fractions represented with a decimal point, like 1.5, 0.75, etc.
Decimal point: It separates the whole number part from the fractional part.
Borrowing: In some cases, you may need to borrow from the next higher place value when the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit.
When solving word problems involving the subtraction of decimals, follow these steps:
1. Understand the problem: Read the problem carefully to determine what is being asked.
2. Identify the numbers: Find the decimal numbers that need to be subtracted.
3. Align decimal points: Write the numbers vertically with the decimal points aligned.
4. Subtract: Starting from the rightmost digit, subtract each column, borrowing if necessary.
5. Check your work: Review the calculations to ensure accuracy.
The following methods can be used for subtracting decimals:
Method 1: Vertical Method
Method 2: Use of Number Line
Subtraction of decimals shares some properties with integer subtraction: -
Here are some tips to efficiently tackle decimal subtraction problems: -
Tip 1: Always line up the decimal points to ensure correct place value alignment.
Tip 2: If necessary, add zeros to either decimal to ensure they have the same number of decimal places.
Tip 3: For visual learners, use a number line to help understand the concept of subtraction.
Ensure that the decimal points are aligned vertically before performing subtraction. Misalignment can lead to incorrect answers.
Subtract to find the difference: $12.50 - $5.75 = $6.75
A rope was 15.8 meters long. After cutting, 4.25 meters were left. How much rope was cut?
11.55 meters
Subtract to find the amount cut: 15.8 - 4.25 = 11.55 meters
A bottle contains 2.5 liters of water. After pouring out 1.75 liters, how much water remains?
0.75 liters
Subtract to find the remaining amount: 2.5 - 1.75 = 0.75 liters
Lucy has $20.00. If she buys a book for $7.45, how much money does she have left?
$12.55
Subtract to find the leftover amount: $20.00 - $7.45 = $12.55
A tank originally holds 30.5 gallons of water. After using 12.3 gallons, how much water is left in the tank?
18.2 gallons
Subtraction of decimals can be tricky due to alignment and borrowing issues. Being aware of these mistakes can help you avoid them.
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.
: She loves to read number jokes and games.