Subtracting Mixed Numbers
In this article, we will learn how to subtract mixed numbers. Specifically, we will focus on the problem 2 9/10 - 2/5.
Understanding the Problem
Before we dive into the solution, let's break down the problem:
- 2 9/10 is a mixed number, which is a combination of a whole number and a fraction.
- 2/5 is a fraction, which is a part of a whole.
Converting the Mixed Number
To subtract these two numbers, we need to convert the mixed number 2 9/10 into an improper fraction. To do this, we multiply the whole number part (2) by the denominator (10) and add the numerator (9):
2 × 10 = 20 20 + 9 = 29
So, the mixed number 2 9/10 is equal to the improper fraction 29/10.
Subtracting the Fractions
Now that we have both numbers in fraction form, we can subtract them:
29/10 - 2/5
To subtract these fractions, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, which is 10. Since the denominator of the second fraction is 5, we need to multiply it by 2 to get 10:
2/5 × 2/2 = 4/10
Now we can subtract:
29/10 - 4/10 = 25/10
Simplifying the Answer
Finally, we can simplify the answer by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 5:
25 ÷ 5 = 5 10 ÷ 5 = 2
So, the final answer is:
2 5/10
Or, in its simplest form:
2 1/2
