Subtracting Mixed Numbers

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a fraction, such as 2 \frac{3}{4}.

Front

How do you subtract mixed numbers?

Back

1. Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions. 2. Subtract the fractions. 3. Convert back to a mixed number if necessary.

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as \frac{9}{4}.

Front

Convert the mixed number 2 \frac{1}{2} to an improper fraction.

Back

2 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{2}.

Front

What is the first step in subtracting mixed numbers?

Back

Convert each mixed number to an improper fraction.

Front

Subtract the mixed numbers: 3 \frac{1}{4} - 1 \frac{2}{3}.

Back

First, convert to improper fractions: 3 \frac{1}{4} = \frac{13}{4}, 1 \frac{2}{3} = \frac{5}{3}. Then find a common denominator and subtract.

Front

What is the common denominator of 4 and 3?

Back

The common denominator of 4 and 3 is 12.

Front

Convert \frac{13}{4} to have a denominator of 12.

Back

\frac{13}{4} = \frac{39}{12}.

Front

Convert \frac{5}{3} to have a denominator of 12.

Back

\frac{5}{3} = \frac{20}{12}.

Front

Now subtract: \frac{39}{12} - \frac{20}{12}. What is the result?

Back

\frac{39}{12} - \frac{20}{12} = \frac{19}{12}.