1 1/3 Minus 1/2: A Step-by-Step Guide
This article will guide you through the process of subtracting 1/2 from 1 1/3. While this may seem simple, it's essential to understand the steps involved to ensure accuracy, especially when working with mixed numbers.
1. Convert the Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction
- Understanding Mixed Numbers: A mixed number combines a whole number and a fraction (e.g., 1 1/3).
- Conversion: To convert 1 1/3 to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (3) and add the numerator (1). Keep the same denominator.
- Calculation: (1 * 3) + 1 = 4. Therefore, 1 1/3 is equivalent to 4/3.
2. Find a Common Denominator
- Matching Denominators: To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator. The least common denominator for 3 and 2 is 6.
- Conversion:
- Multiply the numerator and denominator of 4/3 by 2: (4/3) * (2/2) = 8/6.
- Multiply the numerator and denominator of 1/2 by 3: (1/2) * (3/3) = 3/6.
3. Subtract the Fractions
- Direct Subtraction: Now that both fractions have the same denominator, you can simply subtract the numerators.
- Calculation: 8/6 - 3/6 = 5/6.
4. Simplify the Result
- Simplifying: In this case, the fraction 5/6 is already in its simplest form, meaning there are no common factors between the numerator and denominator.
Conclusion
Therefore, 1 1/3 minus 1/2 equals 5/6. By converting the mixed number to an improper fraction, finding a common denominator, and subtracting the fractions, you can confidently solve this problem.