Subtraction of Integers

Like in addition, the subtraction of integers also has three possibilities. They are:

• Subtraction between two positive numbers
• Subtraction between two negative numbers
• Subtraction between a positive number and a negative number

For ease of calculation, we need to renovate subtraction problems the addition problems. There are two steps to perform this and are given below.

1. Convert the subtraction sign into an addition sign.
2. After converting the sign, take the inverse of the number which comes after the sign.

Once the transformation is done, follow the rules of addition given above.

For example, finding the value of (-5) – (7)

Step 1: Change the subtraction sign into an addition sign

⇒ (-5) + (7)

Step 2: Take the inverse of the number which comes after the sign

⇒ –5 + (-7)                                  (opposite of 7 is -7)

⇒ –5 + (-7) = -12      [Add and put the sign of greater number]