Last updated on August 5th, 2025
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two hexadecimal numbers is known as the subtraction of hexadecimal numbers. It is essential for computations in digital electronics and computer systems, where data is often represented in hexadecimal format.
Subtracting hexadecimal numbers involves borrowing, similar to decimal subtraction, but with a base of 16. The digits range from 0 to F, where A stands for 10, B for 11, and so on, up to F, which stands for 15. The process requires careful handling of borrowing and digit subtraction.
When subtracting hexadecimal numbers, follow these steps:
Borrowing: If the subtrahend digit is greater than the minuend digit, borrow from the next higher digit.
Subtract digits: Subtract each pair of digits, starting from the rightmost digit, borrowing as needed.
Convert results: If borrowing occurs, ensure to convert results properly to maintain hexadecimal format.
The following are the methods for subtraction of hexadecimal numbers:
Method 1: Manual Subtraction
Step 1: Align the numbers vertically by their least significant digit.
Step 2: Subtract each column of digits, borrowing from the left if necessary.
Step 3: Convert any borrowed values to hexadecimal and continue the subtraction.
Method 2: Complement Method
Step 1: Find the 16’s complement of the subtrahend.
Step 2: Add the complement to the minuend.
Step 3: If there is a carry, add it to the result. If not, take the complement of the result.
Subtraction in hexadecimal has some characteristic properties:
Here are some tips and tricks for efficient hexadecimal subtraction:
Tip 1: Use a hexadecimal table to quickly convert between decimal and hexadecimal values.
Tip 2: Practice borrowing with simpler hexadecimal numbers to build confidence.
Tip 3: Double-check borrowing steps, as mistakes here are common.
Borrowing is crucial when the subtrahend digit is greater than the minuend digit. Always remember to adjust the next higher digit appropriately.
Use manual subtraction: 7F - 3A Borrow from 7 making it 6, and F becomes 15 in decimal. 6F - 3A ----- 45
Subtract 2B from 9E
73
9E - 2B Borrow from 9 making it 8, and E becomes 14 in decimal. 8E - 2B ----- 73
Subtract 1F4 from 2A3
0AF
2A3 - 1F4 Borrow from 2 making it 1, and A becomes 9 in decimal. 29F - 1F4 ----- 0AF
Subtract 8C from 1A0
114
1A0 - 8C Borrow from 1 making it 0, and A becomes 9 in decimal. 190 - 8C ----- 114
Subtract 5D from B2
55
Subtraction in hexadecimal can be tricky due to its base-16 nature, leading to common mistakes. Awareness of these errors helps 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.