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
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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
- (5/4 - 1/2): To subtract fractions, they must have a common denominator. The least common denominator of 4 and 2 is 4.
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Multiply the simplified expressions:
- (3/4) x (11/15) = (3 x 11) / (4 x 15) = 33/60
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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.