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1. Definition of subtraction: If a and b are any two numbers, then it is true that:
a - b = a + ( -b )
Note: Subtracting a number is the same as adding its opposite.
Ex: Write each of the given subtraction problems as an equivalent addition problem using the definition of subtraction.
a. 14 - 7 = 14 + (-7 )
b. 9 - 4
c. -13 - 5
2. Subtraction with negative numbers:
To subtract two numbers, rewrite the expression as "addition of the opposite", and then apply the addition rules.
Ex: Simplify:
a.
b.