DIFFERENCE

Difference

Definition Of Difference

Difference is the result that you get when you subtract one number from another.

Example of Difference

The difference between 5 and 2 is 3.
The difference between 6.3 and 9.8 is 3.5.

Video Examples: Differences Between Proportions & Ratios : High School Math Help

Solved Example on Difference

Ques: William bought a shirt for $38.23 and a trouser for $55.52. Find the difference between their costs.

Choices:

A. $16.79
B. $18.52
C. $17.09
D. $17.29
Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1: The difference between their costs = cost of the trouser - cost of the shirt.
Step 2: = $55.52 - $38.23 = $17. 29.

Quick Summary

Difference is found by subtracting
Represents the amount 'left over'

\[ a - b = c, where 'c' is the difference \]

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Subtracting in the wrong order (larger - smaller)
Forgetting to carry/borrow

🌍 Real-World Uses

Calculating the change in temperature between two readings on a thermometer.
Determining the profit a business makes by subtracting expenses from revenue.
Finding the age difference between two people.

📋 Standards Alignment

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.2.OA.A.1

🍎 Teacher Insights

Use real-world examples like sharing toys or comparing heights to illustrate the concept.

🎓 Prerequisites

Subtraction
Number Recognition

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: What is the difference between 10 and 4?

A. 14 B. 6 C. 4 D. 10

Q2: John has 7 apples and gives 2 to Mary. What is the difference in number of apples?

A. 2 B. 5 C. 7 D. 9

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'difference' mean in math?
A: It means the result you get after you subtract one number from another.

Q: Can the difference be negative?
A: Yes, if you subtract a larger number from a smaller number. However, for elementary levels we typically focus on subtracting a smaller number from a larger one.