11/8 - 3/8: Understanding Fraction Subtraction
In this article, we will explore the process of subtracting fractions, specifically 11/8 minus 3/8. Fractions can be intimidating, but with a clear understanding of the concept and step-by-step guidance, you'll be able to tackle even the most complex fraction problems.
What is a Fraction?
A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (the top number) and a denominator (the bottom number). The numerator tells us how many equal parts we have, and the denominator tells us how many parts the whole is divided into.
Understanding the Problem: 11/8 - 3/8
Let's break down the problem: 11/8 minus 3/8. Our goal is to subtract 3/8 from 11/8.
Step 1: Check for Like Denominators
Before we can subtract fractions, we need to make sure they have the same denominator. Fortunately, in this case, both fractions have a denominator of 8, which means we can proceed with the subtraction.
Step 2: Subtract the Numerators
To subtract the fractions, we'll subtract the numerators (the top numbers) and keep the same denominator.
11 - 3 = 8
So, the result of the subtraction is 8.
Step 3: Write the Final Answer
Now, we'll write the final answer as a fraction, keeping the same denominator:
8/8
Simplifying the Fraction
We can simplify the fraction 8/8 by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 8.
8 ÷ 8 = 1 8 ÷ 8 = 1
The simplified answer is:
1
Therefore, 11/8 minus 3/8 equals 1.
