Question

Explain how to subtract two integers in your own words

Answer 1

Answer: a - b = a + (- b). To subtract an integer from another integer, the sign of the number (which is to be subtracted) should be changed and then this number with the changed sign, should be added to the first number.

Explanation:

Let's understand the rule in detail.

The subtraction of integers is very much much similar to addition. It can be done as follows

1. Change the sign of the number to be subtracted and add them up.

2. The result takes the sign of the greater number

For example,

(-10) - (-12) = -10 + ( 12) = -10 + 12 = 2

2 - (-3) = 2 + (3) = 5

(+6) – (+2) = (+6) + (-2) = 6 - 2 = 4

Thus, to subtract an integer from another integer, the sign of the number (which is to be subtracted) should be changed and then this number with the changed sign, should be added to the first number.

Answer 2

To subtract integers, change the sign on the integer that is to be subtracted.
If both signs are positive, the answer will be positive. Example: 14 - (-6) = 14 + 6 = 20.
If both signs are negative, the answer will be negative. ...
If the signs are different subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger absolute value.