How to Subtract Fractions with a Different Denominator
Subtracting fractions with different denominators can be a challenging task for many students, especially those who are just learning the basics of mathematics. However, with the right approach and a clear understanding of the concept, subtracting fractions with different denominators can be simplified into a straightforward process. In this article, we will discuss the steps and techniques to subtract fractions with different denominators effectively.
The first step in subtracting fractions with different denominators is to find a common denominator. The common denominator is a number that is a multiple of both denominators and allows you to combine the fractions into a single fraction. To find the common denominator, you can either multiply the two denominators together or find the least common multiple (LCM) of the two denominators.
Once you have found the common denominator, you need to convert each fraction into an equivalent fraction with the common denominator. To do this, multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the same number that will make the denominator equal to the common denominator. This process is known as finding the equivalent fraction.
For example, let’s subtract the fractions 3/4 and 1/6:
1. Find the common denominator: The common denominator of 4 and 6 is 12 (since 4 x 3 = 12 and 6 x 2 = 12).
2. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the common denominator:
– 3/4 becomes (3 x 3) / (4 x 3) = 9/12
– 1/6 becomes (1 x 2) / (6 x 2) = 2/12
3. Subtract the numerators: 9/12 – 2/12 = 7/12
So, the result of subtracting 3/4 and 1/6 is 7/12.
It’s important to note that when subtracting fractions with different denominators, you can only subtract the numerators while keeping the common denominator. This is because the denominators represent the number of parts in each fraction, and when you have fractions with different denominators, you are essentially comparing parts of different-sized whole numbers.
In conclusion, subtracting fractions with different denominators involves finding a common denominator, converting each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the common denominator, and then subtracting the numerators. By following these steps, you can subtract fractions with different denominators effectively and accurately.
