Calculation Time!
In this article, we will perform a simple arithmetic operation to find the result of 5 1/2 - 1 1/2.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Before we dive into the calculation, let's take a moment to understand what mixed numbers are. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 5 1/2 is a mixed number, where 5 is the whole number and 1/2 is the fraction.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To perform the calculation, we need to convert both mixed numbers to improper fractions. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
5 1/2 can be converted to an improper fraction by multiplying the whole number part (5) by the denominator (2) and then adding the numerator (1). This gives us:
5 1/2 = (5 × 2) + 1 = 11/2
Similarly, we can convert 1 1/2 to an improper fraction as follows:
1 1/2 = (1 × 2) + 1 = 3/2
Performing the Subtraction
Now that we have both mixed numbers converted to improper fractions, we can perform the subtraction:
11/2 - 3/2 = 8/2
Simplifying the Result
Finally, we can simplify the result by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (2):
8/2 = 4
The Final Answer!
Therefore, 5 1/2 - 1 1/2 = 4.
