Simplifying Fractions: 5/9 - 1/2
When working with fractions, it's essential to know how to simplify them to get the desired result. In this article, we will explore how to simplify the fraction 5/9 - 1/2.
The Problem
To simplify the fraction 5/9 - 1/2, we need to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS) and perform the subtraction first.
Step 1: Convert the Fractions to a Common Denominator
Before we can subtract the fractions, we need to convert them to a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 9 and 2 is 18. So, we can convert both fractions to have a denominator of 18.
5/9 = 10/18
1/2 = 9/18
Step 2: Subtract the Fractions
Now that we have the fractions with a common denominator, we can subtract them.
10/18 - 9/18 = 1/18
The Simplified Answer
Therefore, the simplified fraction of 5/9 - 1/2 is 1/18.
Conclusion
Simplifying fractions can seem daunting, but by following the correct steps, you can get the desired result. In this case, we simplified the fraction 5/9 - 1/2 to get 1/18. Remember to always convert the fractions to a common denominator before performing any operations. With practice, you'll become a pro at simplifying fractions in no time!
