Subtraction of Numbers without using Number Line

Learn the rules used for subtraction of numbers without using number line. When the numbers are big, the use of number line is not convenient for their subtraction. Also, it is very time consuming to draw a number line every time, and perform the operation of subtraction.

Rules for subtraction of numbers without using number line in different situation:

To subtract a number from another number, 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.

For Example:

(i) Evaluate (+6) – (+2)

= (+6) + (-2)    (charging the sign of the number to be subtracted and then adding)

On subtracting smaller number 2 from bigger number 6; we get 6 – 2 = 4

Since, the sign of bigger number is + (positive)

= +4 or 4

Therefore, (+6) – (+2) = 4

(ii) Evaluate (+5) – (-3)

= (+5) + (+3)   (charging the sign of the number to be subtracted and then adding)

We know, to add a positive (+ ve) number to a positive (+ ve) number, the numbers should be added and positive sign should be attached to the sum obtained.

= +8

Therefore, (+5) – (-3) = 8

(iii) Evaluate (-7) – (+2)

= (-7) + (-2)    (charging the sign of the number to be subtracted and then adding)

We know, to add a negative number to a negative number, the numbers should be added and negative sign should be attached to the sum obtained.

= -9

Therefore, (-7) – (+2) = -9

(iv) Evaluate (-9) – (-6)

= (-9) + (+6)    (charging the sign of the number to be subtracted and then adding)

On subtracting smaller number 6 from bigger number 9; we get 9 – 6 = 3

As the sign of bigger number is negative (-)

= -3

Therefore, (-9) – (-6) = -3

6th Grade Math Practice

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