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103 LearnersLast updated on September 1, 2025
Subtraction of Whole Numbers
The mathematical operation of finding the difference between two whole numbers is known as the subtraction of whole numbers. It helps simplify calculations and solve problems involving arithmetic operations with whole numbers.
What is Subtraction of Whole Numbers?
Subtracting whole numbers involves taking one number away from another.
It requires understanding the concept of borrowing if the number being subtracted is larger than the number it is subtracted from.
Whole numbers are non-negative integers, including numbers like 0, 1, 2, 3, etc.
How to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers?
When subtracting whole numbers, students should follow these steps:
Borrowing: If the minuend (the number from which you subtract) is smaller than the subtrahend (the number being subtracted) in any digit, borrow from the next higher digit.
Align digits: Write numbers so that corresponding place values are aligned vertically.
Calculate difference: Subtract each digit of the subtrahend from the corresponding digit of the minuend, starting from the rightmost digit.
Methods to do Subtraction of Whole Numbers
The following are the methods of subtraction of whole numbers:
Method 1: Standard Algorithm
To use the standard algorithm for subtraction, follow these steps:
Step 1: Align the numbers by their place values.
Step 2: Subtract each column starting from the right. Borrow from the next column if necessary.
Step 3: Write down the difference.
Example: Subtract 253 from 684: 684 - 253 ------- 431
Method 2: Mental Math
For simple subtractions, you can use mental math: Break down numbers into parts that are easier to subtract and then combine the results.
Example: Subtract 25 from 47: 47 - 20 = 27 27 - 5 = 22
Properties of Subtraction of Whole Numbers
Subtraction of whole numbers has distinct properties:
Subtraction is not commutative Changing the order of numbers changes the result, i.e., A - B ≠ B - A.
Subtraction is not associative We cannot regroup in subtraction.
Changing the grouping of numbers changes the result. (A - B) - C ≠ A - (B - C)
Subtraction is the addition of the opposite sign Subtracting a number is the same as adding its negative: A - B = A + (-B).
Subtracting zero leaves the number unchanged Subtracting zero from any number results in the same number: A - 0 = A.
Tips and Tricks for Subtraction of Whole Numbers
These tips can help students efficiently subtract whole numbers:
Tip 1: Always start subtracting from the rightmost digit.
Tip 2: Use mental math for subtracting smaller numbers or to check your work.
Tip 3: Practice borrowing by using real-world examples like money subtraction to understand the concept better.
Forgetting to borrow
Students often forget to borrow when the digit in the minuend is smaller than the subtrahend. Always remember to adjust for borrowing before subtracting.
Mistake 1
Misalignment of digits
Make sure digits are aligned by place value to avoid calculation errors.
Mistake 2
Incorrect calculation
Double-check your subtraction calculations to ensure accuracy, especially after borrowing.
Mistake 3
Leaving numbers without simplification
Always perform a final check to ensure all calculations are correct and simplified.
Mistake 4
Ignoring zero
Remember that subtracting zero does not change the number. Be mindful of zeros in subtraction problems.
Mistake 5
Examples of Subtraction of Whole Numbers
Subtract 15 from 28
13
Problem 1
Using the standard algorithm: 28 - 15 ------ 13
Subtract 123 from 456
Explanation
333
Problem 2
Using the standard algorithm: 456 - 123 ------ 333
Subtract 8 from 20
Explanation
12
Problem 3
Using mental math: 20 - 8 = 12
Subtract 67 from 89
Explanation
22
Problem 4
Using the standard algorithm: 89 - 67 ------ 22
Subtract 9 from 15
Explanation
6
Yes, as long as the minuend is greater than or equal to the subtrahend.
1.Is subtraction commutative for whole numbers?
2.What happens if you subtract zero from a number?
3.What is borrowing in subtraction?
4.What methods are used for subtraction of whole numbers?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Subtraction of Whole Numbers
Subtraction can sometimes be tricky, leading to common mistakes. However, being aware of these errors can help students avoid them.
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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.
