Subtracting Mixed Numbers: 1 1/3 - 7/8
In this article, we will learn how to subtract mixed numbers, specifically subtracting 7/8 from 1 1/3.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Before we dive into the subtraction, let's make sure we understand what mixed numbers are. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 1 1/3 is a mixed number where 1 is the whole number and 1/3 is the fraction.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To subtract mixed numbers, we need to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than the denominator.
Let's convert 1 1/3 and 7/8 to improper fractions:
- 1 1/3 = (1 × 3 + 1) / 3 = 4/3
- 7/8 = 7/8 (already an improper fraction)
Subtracting Improper Fractions
Now that we have our improper fractions, we can subtract them:
- 4/3 - 7/8 = ?
To subtract fractions, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, which is 24 in this case.
- 4/3 = (4 × 8) / (3 × 8) = 32/24
- 7/8 = (7 × 3) / (8 × 3) = 21/24
Now we can subtract:
- 32/24 - 21/24 = 11/24
Converting Back to a Mixed Number
Finally, we convert the result back to a mixed number:
- 11/24 = 0 11/24
There you have it! The result of subtracting 7/8 from 1 1/3 is 0 11/24.
