1 1/4 Minus 1/3 In Fraction Form

3 min read Jun 17, 2024
1 1/4 Minus 1/3 In Fraction Form

Subtracting Fractions: 1 1/4 - 1/3

This article will guide you through the steps of subtracting the fractions 1 1/4 and 1/3.

Understanding Mixed Numbers and Fractions

Before we start, let's remember what mixed numbers and fractions represent:

  • Mixed Numbers: A mixed number combines a whole number with a fraction, like 1 1/4.
  • Fractions: Fractions represent parts of a whole, with a numerator (top number) indicating the number of parts and a denominator (bottom number) indicating the total number of parts.

Step 1: Convert the Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction

To subtract fractions easily, they must have the same denominator. Let's convert the mixed number 1 1/4 into an improper fraction:

  • Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (4): 1 * 4 = 4
  • Add the numerator (1): 4 + 1 = 5
  • Keep the same denominator (4): 5/4

Now we have 5/4 - 1/3.

Step 2: Find a Common Denominator

The fractions 5/4 and 1/3 have different denominators. To subtract them, we need a common denominator. The least common multiple of 4 and 3 is 12.

  • Convert 5/4 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 12: (5/4) * (3/3) = 15/12
  • Convert 1/3 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 12: (1/3) * (4/4) = 4/12

Step 3: Subtract the Fractions

Now we have 15/12 - 4/12. To subtract fractions with the same denominator:

  • Subtract the numerators: 15 - 4 = 11
  • Keep the same denominator: 11/12

Answer

Therefore, 1 1/4 - 1/3 equals 11/12.

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