Negative numbers are mainly used with coordinates and temperature. Use negative numbers in addition and subtraction problems including subtracting a negative number.
Part of Application of MathsNumeracy skills
Subtracting a negative number is straightforward if you follow this rule:
\(a - ( - b) = a + b\)
\(9 - ( - 1)\)
\(= 9 + 1\)
\(= 10\)
\(6 - ( - 14)\)
\(= 6 + 14\)
\(= 20\)
\(- 5 - ( - 3)\)
\(= - 5 + 3\)
\(= - 2\)
\(- 9 - ( - 12)\)
\(= - 9 + 12\)
\(= 3\)
Now try these questions: You don't need to draw the number line if you can manage without it.
\(4 - ( - 8)\)
\(= 4 + 8\)
\(= 12\)
\(9 - ( - 11)\)
\(= 9 + 11\)
\(- 8 - ( - 3)\)
\(= - 8 + 3\)
\(= - 5\)
\(- 19 - ( - 30)\)
\(= - 19 + 30\)
\(= 11\)