(5/4-1/2)x(1/3+2/5)

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(5/4-1/2)x(1/3+2/5)

Solving the Expression: (5/4 - 1/2) x (1/3 + 2/5)

This article will guide you through solving the expression (5/4 - 1/2) x (1/3 + 2/5). We'll break down the steps using the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) to arrive at the correct answer.

Understanding the Order of Operations

Before we begin, let's quickly review the order of operations:

  • Parentheses/ Brackets
  • Exponents/ Orders
  • Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
  • Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

Solving the Expression

  1. Simplify the expressions within the parentheses:

    • (5/4 - 1/2): To subtract fractions, they must have a common denominator. The least common denominator of 4 and 2 is 4.
      • 5/4 - 2/4 = 3/4
    • (1/3 + 2/5): The least common denominator of 3 and 5 is 15.
      • 5/15 + 6/15 = 11/15
  2. Multiply the simplified expressions:

    • (3/4) x (11/15) = (3 x 11) / (4 x 15) = 33/60
  3. Simplify the fraction: Both 33 and 60 are divisible by 3.

    • 33/60 = 11/20

Final Answer

Therefore, (5/4 - 1/2) x (1/3 + 2/5) = 11/20.