Solving 1 1/4 - 5/8
This article will guide you through the process of subtracting 5/8 from 1 1/4.
Understanding Mixed Numbers and Fractions
Before we begin, let's quickly review the concepts of mixed numbers and fractions:
- Mixed numbers combine a whole number with a fraction. For example, 1 1/4 represents one whole plus one quarter.
- Fractions represent parts of a whole. For example, 5/8 represents five out of eight equal parts.
Converting to a Common Denominator
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (the bottom number).
- Find the least common denominator: The least common denominator (LCD) for 4 and 8 is 8.
- Convert the mixed number:
- 1 1/4 is the same as (1 * 4 + 1)/4 = 5/4.
- To get a denominator of 8, multiply the numerator and denominator by 2: (5/4) * (2/2) = 10/8.
Now our problem is: 10/8 - 5/8
Subtracting Fractions
With the same denominator, we can simply subtract the numerators:
10/8 - 5/8 = 5/8
The Answer
Therefore, 1 1/4 minus 5/8 equals 5/8.