Solve: 1/2 - 1/6 - 3/12 Fraction Subtraction Problem

Fraction Subtraction with Mixed Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

1216312=? \frac{1}{2}-\frac{1}{6}-\frac{3}{12}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:06 Let's solve this problem together.
00:09 First, we need to find the least common denominator.
00:13 So, we'll multiply by 6, and by 2 respectively, to find that common denominator.
00:19 Remember, we must multiply both the numerator and the denominator. Let's do that now!
00:28 Now, let's calculate the multiplications.
00:34 Subtract the fractions under the common denominator.
00:38 Let's calculate the new numerator and find out the answer.
00:49 And there we have it! This is the solution to the question.

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

1216312=? \frac{1}{2}-\frac{1}{6}-\frac{3}{12}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we need to subtract three fractions: 1216312\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{6} - \frac{3}{12}.

First, let's find the least common denominator (LCD) for the fractions. The denominators are 2, 6, and 12. The smallest number that all these denominators divide evenly into is 12, so the LCD is 12.

Next, convert each fraction to have 12 as the denominator:

  • 12=1×62×6=612\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 6}{2 \times 6} = \frac{6}{12}
  • 16=1×26×2=212\frac{1}{6} = \frac{1 \times 2}{6 \times 2} = \frac{2}{12}
  • 312\frac{3}{12} is already with denominator 12

Now, perform the subtraction using these equivalent fractions:

612212312\frac{6}{12} - \frac{2}{12} - \frac{3}{12}

Subtract the fractions in sequence while keeping the common denominator:

612212=412\frac{6}{12} - \frac{2}{12} = \frac{4}{12}

Then, 412312=112\frac{4}{12} - \frac{3}{12} = \frac{1}{12}

The fraction 112\frac{1}{12} is already in its simplest form.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 112\frac{1}{12}.

3

Final Answer

112 \frac{1}{12}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • LCD Rule: Find least common denominator before adding or subtracting fractions
  • Technique: Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to 612 \frac{6}{12} when LCD is 12
  • Check: Verify 612212312=112 \frac{6}{12} - \frac{2}{12} - \frac{3}{12} = \frac{1}{12} by checking numerators ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding or subtracting fractions without finding common denominators first
    Don't subtract 1216=04 \frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{0}{4} by just subtracting numerators and denominators separately! This gives completely wrong results because you can't combine fractions with different denominators. Always find the LCD and convert all fractions first.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( \frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{4}= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just subtract the numerators and denominators separately?

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Fractions represent parts of different-sized wholes! 12 \frac{1}{2} means 1 out of 2 pieces, while 16 \frac{1}{6} means 1 out of 6 pieces. You need the same-sized pieces (same denominator) to subtract them.

How do I find the LCD when I have three different denominators?

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Look for the smallest number that all denominators divide into evenly. For 2, 6, and 12: since 12 ÷ 2 = 6, 12 ÷ 6 = 2, and 12 ÷ 12 = 1, the LCD is 12!

What if my final answer needs to be simplified?

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Always check if your answer can be reduced! Look for common factors in the numerator and denominator. Since 112 \frac{1}{12} has no common factors other than 1, it's already in lowest terms.

Can I work left to right or do I need a special order?

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With subtraction, work left to right! First do 612212=412 \frac{6}{12} - \frac{2}{12} = \frac{4}{12} , then 412312=112 \frac{4}{12} - \frac{3}{12} = \frac{1}{12} . This keeps your work organized and prevents errors.

What if I get a negative answer?

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That's possible with subtraction! If the fractions you're subtracting are larger than the first fraction, you'll get a negative result. Just keep the negative sign with your final answer.

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