Subtracting Mixed Numbers: 4 1/6 - 1 4/9 as a Fraction
In this article, we will explore how to subtract mixed numbers, specifically 4 1/6 - 1 4/9 as a fraction. Subtracting mixed numbers can be a bit challenging, but with the right steps, you can master this skill.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To subtract mixed numbers, we need to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
Convert 4 1/6 to an Improper Fraction
To convert 4 1/6 to an improper fraction, we need to multiply the whole number part (4) by the denominator (6) and then add the numerator (1).
4 × 6 = 24 24 + 1 = 25
So, 4 1/6 as an improper fraction is:
25/6
Convert 1 4/9 to an Improper Fraction
Similarly, to convert 1 4/9 to an improper fraction, we need to multiply the whole number part (1) by the denominator (9) and then add the numerator (4).
1 × 9 = 9 9 + 4 = 13
So, 1 4/9 as an improper fraction is:
13/9
Step 2: Subtract the Improper Fractions
Now that we have converted both mixed numbers to improper fractions, we can subtract them.
25/6 - 13/9
To subtract these fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 6 and 9 is 18. So, we will convert both fractions to have a denominator of 18.
25/6 = 75/18 13/9 = 26/18
Now, we can subtract the fractions:
75/18 - 26/18 = 49/18
Step 3: Simplify the Result
The result of the subtraction is an improper fraction, 49/18. To simplify this fraction, we can divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 1.
49/18 = 2 11/18
So, the result of 4 1/6 - 1 4/9 as a fraction is:
2 11/18
In conclusion, subtracting mixed numbers requires converting them to improper fractions, finding a common denominator, and then subtracting the fractions. By following these steps, you can simplify the result to get the final answer in mixed number form.
