Simplifying Fractions: 1 5/6 - 3/8
In this article, we will learn how to subtract fractions with different denominators. Specifically, we will evaluate the expression 1 5/6 - 3/8.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
Before we start subtracting, let's convert the mixed number 1 5/6 to an improper fraction.
1 5/6 = (1 × 6 + 5) / 6 = (6 + 5) / 6 = 11/6
Now, we have:
11/6 - 3/8
Finding a Common Denominator
To subtract these fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 6 and 8 is 24. So, we will convert both fractions to have a denominator of 24:
11/6 = (11 × 4) / (6 × 4) = 44/24 3/8 = (3 × 3) / (8 × 3) = 9/24
Now, we can subtract:
44/24 - 9/24 = (44 - 9) / 24 = 35/24
Simplifying the Result
We can simplify the fraction 35/24 by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 1:
35 ÷ 1 = 35 24 ÷ 1 = 24
So, the result of the subtraction is:
35/24
Therefore, 1 5/6 - 3/8 as a fraction is equal to 35/24.
