BrightChamps Logo
Login
Creative Math Ideas Image
Live Math Learners Count Icon104 Learners

Last updated on August 5th, 2025

Math Whiteboard Illustration

Subtraction of Equations

Professor Greenline Explaining Math Concepts

The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two equations is known as the subtraction of equations. It helps solve systems of equations and simplify problems involving constants, variables, and arithmetic operations.

Subtraction of Equations for US Students
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

What is Subtraction of Equations?

Subtracting equations involves finding the difference between two equations by subtracting one from the other. This process can be useful in solving systems of equations, where the goal is to eliminate a variable. In subtraction of equations, we deal with:

 

Coefficients: These are constant values like -1, 4, etc.

 

Variables: These are unknown quantities like x, y, z, etc.

 

Operators: For subtraction, the operator is the minus (-) symbol.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

How to do Subtraction of Equations?

When subtracting equations, students should follow these rules:

 

Align terms: Make sure that all like terms are aligned vertically.

 

Subtract: Subtract the coefficients of the aligned terms and simplify the result.

 

Check solution: After subtracting, solve the resulting equation for the variable of interest.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Methods to do Subtraction of Equations

The following are methods for subtracting equations:

 

Method 1: Elimination Method

 

To apply the elimination method for subtraction of equations, follow these steps.

 

Step 1: Arrange both equations in standard form with like terms aligned.

 

Step 2: Subtract one equation from the other to eliminate a variable.

 

Step 3: Solve the resulting equation.

 

Example: Subtract the equations 3x + 2y = 7 2x + 2y = 5

 

Step 1: Align the equations: 3x + 2y = 7 2x + 2y = 5

 

Step 2: Subtract the second equation from the first: (3x + 2y) - (2x + 2y) = 7 - 5

 

Step 3: Simplify and solve: x = 2 Answer: x = 2

 

Method 2: Substitution Method

 

In the substitution method, solve one equation for one variable and substitute into the other equation to eliminate the variable.

 

Example: Solve the equations x + y = 6 x - y = 2

 

Solution: Solve the first equation for x: x = 6 - y

 

Substitute in the second equation: (6 - y) - y = 2 6 - 2y = 2 2y = 4 y = 2

 

Substitute back: x = 6 - 2 = 4

 

Therefore, x = 4 and y = 2

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Properties of Subtraction of Equations

Subtraction of equations has the following properties:

 

  • Subtraction is not commutative In subtraction, changing the order of the terms changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A

 

  • Subtraction is not associative Unlike addition, we cannot regroup in subtraction. When three or more equations are involved, changing the grouping changes the result. (A − B) − C ≠ A − (B − C)

 

  • Subtraction is the addition of the opposite sign Subtracting an equation is the same as adding its opposite, so to make calculations easier, you can convert subtraction into addition by changing the signs of the second equation. A − B = A + (−B)

 

  • Subtracting zero from an equation leaves the equation as is Subtracting zero from any equation results in the same equation: A - 0 = A
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Equations

Tips and tricks for effectively dealing with subtraction of equations include:

 

Tip 1: Always check alignment of like terms before subtracting.

 

Tip 2: If two equations have identical terms on one side, subtract them out to simplify calculations.

 

Tip 3: Use the elimination method when a variable can be easily eliminated by subtraction.

Max Pointing Out Common Math Mistakes

Misalignment of terms

Ensure that like terms are aligned vertically before subtracting. Misalignment can lead to incorrect subtraction.

Mistake 1

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Forgetting to change signs

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

When subtracting, remember to distribute the minus sign across all terms of the equation being subtracted.

Mistake 2

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Combining unlike terms

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Only terms with the same variables and exponents should be combined; combining unlike terms results in errors.

Mistake 3

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Leaving equations unsolved

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

After subtraction, always solve the resulting equation for the variable of interest.

Mistake 4

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Ignoring missing terms

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

For missing terms in an equation, use zero as a placeholder to maintain proper alignment during subtraction.

Mistake 5

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Examples of Subtraction of Equations

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Subtract the equations 4x + 3y = 10 and 2x + 3y = 4

arrow-right
Max from BrightChamps Saying "Hey"
Hey!

x = 3

Ray, the Character from BrightChamps Explaining Math Concepts
Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 1

Use the elimination method, (4x + 3y) - (2x + 3y) = 10 - 4 2x = 6 x = 3

Ray, the Boy Character from BrightChamps Saying "Let’s Begin"
Okay, lets begin

Subtract the equations y = 2x + 3 and y = 3x + 1

Explanation

x = 2

Max from BrightChamps Praising Clear Math Explanations
Well explained 👍
Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 2

Subtract the equations, (2x + 3) - (3x + 1) = 0 2x + 3 - 3x - 1 = 0 -x + 2 = 0 x = 2

Ray, the Boy Character from BrightChamps Saying "Let’s Begin"
Okay, lets begin

Subtract the equations x + y = 5 and x - y = 1

Explanation

y = 2

Max from BrightChamps Praising Clear Math Explanations
Well explained 👍
Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 3

Subtract the equations, (x + y) - (x - y) = 5 - 1 x + y - x + y = 4 2y = 4 y = 2

Ray, the Boy Character from BrightChamps Saying "Let’s Begin"
Okay, lets begin

Subtract the equations 3a + 4b = 12 and 3a + 2b = 8

Explanation

b = 2

Max from BrightChamps Praising Clear Math Explanations
Well explained 👍
Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Problem 4

Subtract the equations, (3a + 4b) - (3a + 2b) = 12 - 8 2b = 4 b = 2

Ray, the Boy Character from BrightChamps Saying "Let’s Begin"
Okay, lets begin

Subtract the equations 6m - n = 9 and 2m - n = 3

Explanation

m = 3

Max from BrightChamps Praising Clear Math Explanations
Well explained 👍
Ray Thinking Deeply About Math Problems

No, only like terms can be aligned and subtracted; unlike terms remain unchanged.

1.Is subtraction commutative in equations?

No, the order of equations matters in subtraction; changing them changes the outcome.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

2.What are like terms in equations?

Like terms in equations have identical variables and exponents; for example, 3x and 5x are like terms.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

3.What is the first step in subtracting equations?

The first step is to align the equations so that like terms are vertically aligned for subtraction.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

4.What methods are used for the subtraction of equations?

The elimination method and substitution method are commonly used for subtracting equations.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

5.How can children in United States use numbers in everyday life to understand Subtraction of Equations?

Numbers appear everywhere—from counting money to measuring ingredients. Kids in United States see how Subtraction of Equations helps solve real problems, making numbers meaningful beyond the classroom.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

6.What are some fun ways kids in United States can practice Subtraction of Equations with numbers?

Games like board games, sports scoring, or even cooking help children in United States use numbers naturally. These activities make practicing Subtraction of Equations enjoyable and connected to their world.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

7.What role do numbers and Subtraction of Equations play in helping children in United States develop problem-solving skills?

Working with numbers through Subtraction of Equations sharpens reasoning and critical thinking, preparing kids in United States for challenges inside and outside the classroom.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

8.How can families in United States create number-rich environments to improve Subtraction of Equations skills?

Families can include counting chores, measuring recipes, or budgeting allowances, helping children connect numbers and Subtraction of Equations with everyday activities.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Equations

Subtraction in equations can be challenging, leading to common mistakes. Awareness of these errors can help students avoid them.

Math Teacher Background Image
Math Teacher Image

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.

Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Fun Fact

: She loves to read number jokes and games.

INDONESIA - Axa Tower 45th floor, JL prof. Dr Satrio Kav. 18, Kel. Karet Kuningan, Kec. Setiabudi, Kota Adm. Jakarta Selatan, Prov. DKI Jakarta
INDIA - H.No. 8-2-699/1, SyNo. 346, Rd No. 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana - 500034
SINGAPORE - 60 Paya Lebar Road #05-16, Paya Lebar Square, Singapore (409051)
USA - 251, Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808
VIETNAM (Office 1) - Hung Vuong Building, 670 Ba Thang Hai, ward 14, district 10, Ho Chi Minh City
VIETNAM (Office 2) - 143 Nguyễn Thị Thập, Khu đô thị Him Lam, Quận 7, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
UAE - BrightChamps, 8W building 5th Floor, DAFZ, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
UK - Ground floor, Redwood House, Brotherswood Court, Almondsbury Business Park, Bristol, BS32 4QW, United Kingdom