BrightChamps Logo
Login
Creative Math Ideas Image
Live Math Learners Count Icon102 Learners

Last updated on August 5th, 2025

Math Whiteboard Illustration

Subtraction of Two Hexadecimal Numbers

Professor Greenline Explaining Math Concepts

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.

Subtraction of Two Hexadecimal Numbers for US Students
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

What is Subtraction of Two Hexadecimal Numbers?

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.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

How to Subtract Two Hexadecimal Numbers?

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.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Methods to Subtract Two Hexadecimal Numbers

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.

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Properties of Subtraction of Hexadecimal Numbers

Subtraction in hexadecimal has some characteristic properties:

 

  • Subtraction is not commutative: Changing the order of hexadecimal numbers changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A.

 

  • Subtraction is not associative: Changing the grouping of terms changes the result. (A - B) - C ≠ A - (B - C)

 

  • Subtraction involves borrowing: When a digit in the subtrahend is larger, borrowing is needed, similar to decimal subtraction but in base 16.
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Hexadecimal Numbers

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.

Max Pointing Out Common Math Mistakes

Forgetting to Borrow

Borrowing is crucial when the subtrahend digit is greater than the minuend digit. Always remember to adjust the next higher digit appropriately.

Mistake 1

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Misinterpreting Hexadecimal Digits

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Confusion can arise between hexadecimal and decimal values. Ensure clarity on hexadecimal digits, where A-F represent values 10-15.

Mistake 2

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Ignoring Carry in Complement Method

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

When using the complement method, a carry should be added to the result, or the complement should be taken if no carry is present.

Mistake 3

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Skipping Conversion Steps

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Always convert borrowed amounts back to hexadecimal to ensure accurate subtraction.

Mistake 4

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Aligning Digits Incorrectly

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Ensure digits are correctly aligned by their least significant digits, similar to decimal subtraction.

Mistake 5

Red Cross Icon Indicating Mistakes to Avoid in This Math Topic

Examples of Subtraction of Hexadecimal Numbers

Green Checkmark Icon Indicating Correct Solutions in This Math Topic

Subtract 3A from 7F

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

45

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

Problem 1

Use manual subtraction: 7F - 3A Borrow from 7 making it 6, and F becomes 15 in decimal. 6F - 3A ----- 45

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

Subtract 2B from 9E

Explanation

73

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

Problem 2

9E - 2B Borrow from 9 making it 8, and E becomes 14 in decimal. 8E - 2B ----- 73

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

Subtract 1F4 from 2A3

Explanation

0AF

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

Problem 3

2A3 - 1F4 Borrow from 2 making it 1, and A becomes 9 in decimal. 29F - 1F4 ----- 0AF

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

Subtract 8C from 1A0

Explanation

114

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

Problem 4

1A0 - 8C Borrow from 1 making it 0, and A becomes 9 in decimal. 190 - 8C ----- 114

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

Subtract 5D from B2

Explanation

55

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

Yes, but you need to borrow from the next higher digit, similar to decimal subtraction.

1.Is subtraction commutative in hexadecimal?

No, the order of numbers matters; switching them changes the result.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

2.What digits are used in hexadecimal?

Hexadecimal uses digits 0-9 and letters A-F, where A=10, B=11, up to F=15.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

3.What is the first step in subtracting hexadecimal numbers?

Align the numbers by their least significant digits and start subtracting from the rightmost digit.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

4.What method is used for subtracting hexadecimal numbers?

The manual subtraction method and the complement method are commonly used.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

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

Numbers appear everywhere—from counting money to measuring ingredients. Kids in United States see how Subtraction of Two Hexadecimal Numbers 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 Two Hexadecimal Numbers 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 Two Hexadecimal Numbers enjoyable and connected to their world.

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow

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

Working with numbers through Subtraction of Two Hexadecimal Numbers 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 Two Hexadecimal Numbers skills?

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

Math FAQ Answers Dropdown Arrow
Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Hexadecimal Numbers

Subtraction in hexadecimal can be tricky due to its base-16 nature, leading to common mistakes. Awareness of these errors helps 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