Subtract Positive from Negative Number

Quickly calculate and visualize the subtraction of a positive number from a negative number.

Enter Numbers

To subtract a positive number from a negative number, input the values below.

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+
Result:

Visual Representation

Negative Number:
Positive Number:
Difference:

Understanding Subtraction of Positive from Negative Numbers

Subtracting a positive number from a negative number results in moving further into the negative direction on the number line. Imagine you are at -5 degrees Celsius, and the temperature drops by 3 degrees. You would calculate the new temperature by subtracting 3 from -5, resulting in -8 degrees Celsius. Mathematically, this is represented as: Negative Number - Positive Number = More Negative Number. For example, if you want to calculate -7 - 4, you start at -7 and move 4 units to the left on the number line, ending at -11. Thus, -7 - 4 = -11. This tool helps you quickly compute and visualize such subtractions.