Subtracting Mixed Numbers: 3 1/4 - 2 5/8
In this article, we will learn how to subtract mixed numbers. Specifically, we will focus on subtracting 2 5/8 from 3 1/4.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Before we dive into the subtraction process, let's review what mixed numbers are. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 3 1/4 is a mixed number, where 3 is the whole number and 1/4 is the fraction.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To subtract mixed numbers, it's often helpful to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than the denominator.
Let's convert our mixed numbers to improper fractions:
- 3 1/4 = 13/4
- 2 5/8 = 21/8
Subtracting Improper Fractions
Now that we have our improper fractions, we can subtract them.
To subtract fractions, we need to have the same denominator. In this case, our denominators are 4 and 8. We can find the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 8, which is 8. So, we'll convert our fractions to have a denominator of 8:
- 13/4 = 26/8
- 21/8 (no change needed)
Now we can subtract:
26/8 - 21/8 = 5/8
Converting Back to a Mixed Number
Finally, we can convert our result back to a mixed number:
5/8 = 0 5/8
So, 3 1/4 - 2 5/8 = 0 5/8.
