Class Notes: Basic Subtraction
What is Subtraction?
Subtraction is one of the four basic operations in mathematics. It involves taking one number
away from another to find the difference.
Key Terms:
1. Minuend: The number from which another number is subtracted.
2. Subtrahend: The number that is being subtracted.
3. Difference: The result of the subtraction.
Example:
● If we subtract 3 from 7, we write it as:
7-3=4
Here, 7 is the minuend, 3 is the subtrahend, and 4 is the difference.
Subtraction Symbols
● The minus sign (-) is used to show subtraction.
● The equals sign (=) is used to show the result.
Example:
10 - 6 = 4
This means 10 minus 6 equals 4.
Properties of Subtraction
1. Non-Commutative:
○ The order of numbers matters in subtraction.
○ Example: 5 - 3 ≠ 3 - 5
2. Identity Property:
○ Subtracting 0 from a number does not change the number.
○ Example: 8 - 0 = 8
3. Subtraction of a Number from Itself:
○ Subtracting a number from itself gives 0.
○ Example: 9 - 9 = 0
Steps to Perform Subtraction
1. Write the numbers one below the other, aligning the digits by place value (ones, tens,
hundreds, etc.).
2. Start subtracting from the rightmost digit (ones place).
3. If the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit, borrow 1 from the next column to the left.
Example:
Subtract 84 from 132.
Step 1: Align the numbers:
132
− 84
Step 2: Subtract the ones place: 2 - 4 (borrow 1 from the tens place, making it 12 - 4 = 8).
Step 3: Subtract the tens place: 2 (after borrowing) - 8 = 4.
Step 4: Subtract the hundreds place: 1 - 0 = 1.
Step 5: Write the final difference:
132
− 84
48
So, 132 - 84 = 48.
Practice Problems
1. 9-4=?
2. 15 - 7 = ?
3. 63 - 28 = ?
4. 100 - 45 = ?
Bonus Challenge: Subtract 546 - 289.
Fun Fact
Subtraction is closely related to addition. For example, if 7 - 3 = 4, then 4 + 3 = 7. This
relationship helps in checking subtraction problems.
Real-Life Applications of Subtraction
1. Finding out how much money is left after spending.
2. Measuring differences, such as in temperature or height.
3. Solving problems like finding out how many items remain.
4. Comparing quantities in daily life, like distances or weights.
With practice, subtraction becomes a simple and useful tool. Keep solving problems to sharpen
your skills!
