Subtracting Real Numbers Section 1.2 Subtracting Real Numbers

Subtraction of Real Numbers To subtract real numbers, add the opposite of the second number (the number you are subtracting) to the first.

Example Subtract 6 – (–14). 6 – (–14) = 6 + (+14) = 20 The opposite of 14 is 14. Change the subtraction to addition. Perform the addition of the two positive numbers.

Example Subtract –6 – 14. –6 – (14) = –6 + (–14) = –20 The opposite of 14 is 14. Change the subtraction to addition. Perform the addition of the two negative numbers.

Example Subtract. –21 – (–13) –21 + (13) = –8 The opposite of –13 is 13. Change the subtraction to addition. Perform the addition.

Example Subtract. Subtraction changed to addition. The LCD is 55. Multiply the fractions. Add the fractions.

Example Subtract. Subtraction changed to addition.

Example Subtract.