7 1/4 - 3 3/4 as a Fraction
In this article, we will explore how to subtract two mixed numbers, specifically 7 1/4 and 3 3/4, and express the result as a fraction.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Before we dive into the subtraction, let's quickly review what mixed numbers are. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 7 1/4 is a mixed number, where 7 is the whole number and 1/4 is the fraction.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To subtract mixed numbers, it's often easier to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator (the top number) is greater than or equal to the denominator (the bottom number).
Let's convert our mixed numbers to improper fractions:
- 7 1/4 = 29/4
- 3 3/4 = 15/4
Subtracting the Fractions
Now that we have our improper fractions, we can subtract them:
29/4 - 15/4 = ?
To subtract fractions, we need to have the same denominator. In this case, both fractions already have the same denominator, which is 4. So, we can simply subtract the numerators:
29 - 15 = 14
So, the result of the subtraction is:
14/4
Simplifying the Fraction
We can simplify the fraction 14/4 by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 2:
14 ÷ 2 = 7 4 ÷ 2 = 2
So, the simplified fraction is:
7/2
The Final Answer
Therefore, 7 1/4 - 3 3/4 as a fraction is equal to:
7/2
