Subtracting Fractions: 1 1/4 - 5/8
This article will guide you through the steps of subtracting 1 1/4 and 5/8.
Step 1: Find a Common Denominator
- The smallest common denominator for 4 and 8 is 8.
- Convert 1 1/4 to an improper fraction: (1 * 4) + 1 = 5, so 1 1/4 is equivalent to 5/4.
- Multiply the numerator and denominator of 5/4 by 2 to get 10/8.
Step 2: Subtract the Fractions
- Now that both fractions have the same denominator, we can subtract: 10/8 - 5/8.
- Subtract the numerators: 10 - 5 = 5.
- Keep the denominator: 5/8.
Step 3: Simplify (if necessary)
- The fraction 5/8 is already in its simplest form.
Answer
Therefore, 1 1/4 - 5/8 = 5/8.