Fraction Calculation: 5 1/8 - 1 1/2 ================================================ ====
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of subtracting two mixed numbers: 5 1/8 and 1 1/2.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To perform the subtraction, we need to convert both mixed numbers into improper fractions.
5 1/8
To convert 5 1/8, we multiply the whole number part (5) by the denominator (8) and then add the numerator (1).
5 × 8 = 40 40 + 1 = 41
So, 5 1/8 is equal to 41/8.
1 1/2
To convert 1 1/2, we multiply the whole number part (1) by the denominator (2) and then add the numerator (1).
1 × 2 = 2 2 + 1 = 3
So, 1 1/2 is equal to 3/2.
Step 2: Find a Common Denominator
To subtract the two fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 8 and 2 is 8. So, we will convert 3/2 to have a denominator of 8.
3/2 = 12/8
Step 3: Subtract the Fractions
Now that we have the same denominator, we can subtract the fractions.
41/8 - 12/8 = 29/8
Step 4: Convert the Result Back to a Mixed Number
To convert the improper fraction 29/8 back to a mixed number, we divide the numerator (29) by the denominator (8).
29 ÷ 8 = 3 with a remainder of 5
So, 29/8 is equal to 3 5/8.
Conclusion
The result of subtracting 1 1/2 from 5 1/8 is 3 5/8.
