Subtracting Fractions − When the denominator is the same
The denominator remains the same. Just add the numerators and maybe write the fraction in its simplest form
- Example 1. 4/5 − 2/5 = 2/5
- Example 2. 5/10 − 2/10 = 3/10
- Example 3. 6/7 − 2/7 = 4/7
- Example 4. 1/3 − 2/3 = − 1/3
- Example 5. 2 3/4 − 1 1/4
| (a) | Convert the mixed numbers to top heavy fractions |
| 2 3/4 − 1 1/4 = 11/4 − 5/4 | |
| (b) | Subtract the top heavy fractions and then simplify |
| 11/4 − 5/4 = 6/4 = 3/2 = 1 1/2 | |
Note: for a recap on simplifying fractions refer to Fractions - simplifyNote: for a recap on converting mixed numbers to top heavy fractions
refer to Fractions - convert mixed numbers to top heavy
Note: for a recap on converting top heavy fractions to mixed numbers
refer to Fractions - convert top heavy to mixed numbers
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