Fraction Calculation: 7 1/2 - 1/8
In this article, we will discuss how to subtract a fraction from a mixed number. Specifically, we will calculate 7 1/2 - 1/8.
Understanding the Fractions
Before we dive into the calculation, let's understand the fractions involved.
- 7 1/2: This is a mixed number, which is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. The whole number part is 7, and the fraction part is 1/2.
- 1/8: This is a fraction, where the numerator is 1 and the denominator is 8.
Converting to Improper Fractions
To subtract a fraction from a mixed number, we need to convert the mixed number to an improper fraction. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
- 7 1/2: To convert this to an improper fraction, we multiply the whole number part (7) by the denominator (2) and then add the numerator (1). This gives us:
7 × 2 + 1 = 15
So, the improper fraction equivalent to 7 1/2 is 15/2.
Subtracting the Fractions
Now that we have converted the mixed number to an improper fraction, we can subtract the fractions.
15/2 - 1/8
To subtract these fractions, we need to find a common denominator, which is the least common multiple (LCM) of 2 and 8. The LCM of 2 and 8 is 8.
- 15/2: We can convert this to have a denominator of 8 by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by 4.
15 × 4 = 60 2 × 4 = 8
So, the equivalent fraction is 60/8.
Now we can subtract the fractions:
60/8 - 1/8
Subtracting the numerators and keeping the denominator the same, we get:
60 - 1 = 59
59/8
This is the result of subtracting 1/8 from 7 1/2.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 7 1/2 - 1/8 = 59/8. We converted the mixed number to an improper fraction, found a common denominator, and then subtracted the fractions to get the result.
