Simplifying Fractions: 11/12 - 3/4 in Simple Form
In this article, we will explore how to simplify the subtraction of two fractions: 11/12 - 3/4. Simplifying fractions is an essential skill in mathematics, and it's used in various branches of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, and more.
Step 1: Find the Common Denominator
To subtract two fractions, we need to find the common denominator. The denominator of the first fraction is 12, and the denominator of the second fraction is 4. To find the common denominator, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of 12 and 4.
The multiples of 12 are: 12, 24, 36, 48, ... The multiples of 4 are: 4, 8, 12, 16, ...
The first number that appears in both lists is 12, so the common denominator is 12.
Step 2: Convert 3/4 to an Equivalent Fraction
Since the common denominator is 12, we need to convert 3/4 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 12.
To do this, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator of 3/4 by 3, which gives us:
3/4 = 9/12
Step 3: Subtract the Fractions
Now that we have the equivalent fractions, we can subtract them:
11/12 - 9/12 = 2/12
Step 4: Simplify the Result
Finally, we simplify the result by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). In this case, the GCD of 2 and 12 is 2.
Dividing both numbers by 2 gives us:
2/12 = 1/6
Therefore, the simplified form of 11/12 - 3/4 is 1/6.
Conclusion
In this article, we have demonstrated how to simplify the subtraction of two fractions: 11/12 - 3/4. By finding the common denominator, converting the fractions to equivalent fractions, subtracting the fractions, and simplifying the result, we arrived at the simplified form of 1/6.
