Subtracting Fractions: 1 1/4 - 1/3
This article will guide you through the process of subtracting the fractions 1 1/4 and 1/3.
Step 1: Find a Common Denominator
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator. The least common denominator (LCD) of 4 and 3 is 12.
- Convert 1 1/4 to an improper fraction: (1 * 4) + 1 = 5. Keep the denominator, so 1 1/4 becomes 5/4.
- Multiply the numerator and denominator of 5/4 by 3 to get 15/12.
- Multiply the numerator and denominator of 1/3 by 4 to get 4/12.
Step 2: Subtract the Fractions
Now that both fractions have the same denominator, we can subtract:
15/12 - 4/12 = 11/12
Step 3: Simplify the Result
The fraction 11/12 is already in its simplest form, as the greatest common factor of 11 and 12 is 1.
Conclusion
Therefore, 1 1/4 - 1/3 is equal to 11/12.