Subtracting Mixed Numbers: 1 1/3 - 1 1/4
This article will guide you through the process of subtracting the mixed numbers 1 1/3 and 1 1/4.
1. Find a Common Denominator
The first step is to find a common denominator for the fractions 1/3 and 1/4. The least common multiple of 3 and 4 is 12.
- Convert 1/3 to 4/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 4)
- Convert 1/4 to 3/12 (multiply numerator and denominator by 3)
2. Rewrite the Mixed Numbers
Now, rewrite the mixed numbers with the common denominator:
- 1 1/3 becomes 1 4/12
- 1 1/4 becomes 1 3/12
3. Subtract the Fractions
Subtract the fractions: 4/12 - 3/12 = 1/12
4. Subtract the Whole Numbers
Subtract the whole numbers: 1 - 1 = 0
5. Combine the Results
Combine the results from steps 3 and 4: 0 + 1/12 = 1/12
Therefore, 1 1/3 - 1 1/4 = 1/12.