Solve: 4/5 - 3/10 - 1/5 Multiple Fraction Subtraction

Fraction Subtraction with Common Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

4531015=? \frac{4}{5}-\frac{3}{10}-\frac{1}{5}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:07 Let's solve the problem step by step.
00:10 First, we need the least common denominator.
00:14 So, we will multiply the fractions by two.
00:17 Remember, multiply both the top and bottom by the same number.
00:29 Now, let's do the multiplications together.
00:37 Next, subtract the fractions under the common denominator.
00:44 Let's calculate the new numerator.
00:53 And that gives us the solution to our question!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

4531015=? \frac{4}{5}-\frac{3}{10}-\frac{1}{5}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the problem 4531015 \frac{4}{5} - \frac{3}{10} - \frac{1}{5} , we'll perform the following steps:

  • Step 1: Find the common denominator of the fractions involved in subtraction.
  • Step 2: Convert each fraction to have this common denominator.
  • Step 3: Subtract the fractions and simplify the result.

Let's work through each step:

Step 1: Identify a common denominator for the fractions. The denominators are 5, 10, and 5. The least common multiple of these numbers is 10.

Step 2: Convert each fraction to have the common denominator of 10:

  • 45 \frac{4}{5} can be rewritten as 810 \frac{8}{10} because multiplying both the numerator and the denominator by 2 gives 810 \frac{8}{10} .
  • 310 \frac{3}{10} already has the denominator 10, so it remains 310 \frac{3}{10} .
  • 15 \frac{1}{5} can be rewritten as 210 \frac{2}{10} because multiplying both the numerator and the denominator by 2 gives 210 \frac{2}{10} .

Step 3: Subtract the fractions:

810310210=(83210)=310 \frac{8}{10} - \frac{3}{10} - \frac{2}{10} = \left(\frac{8 - 3 - 2}{10}\right) = \frac{3}{10} .

Thus, the result of the subtraction 4531015 \frac{4}{5} - \frac{3}{10} - \frac{1}{5} is 310 \frac{3}{10} .

3

Final Answer

310 \frac{3}{10}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Find the LCD of all denominators before subtracting fractions
  • Technique: Convert 45 \frac{4}{5} to 810 \frac{8}{10} by multiplying by 2/2
  • Check: Verify 810310210=310 \frac{8}{10} - \frac{3}{10} - \frac{2}{10} = \frac{3}{10}

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting denominators instead of finding common denominator
    Don't subtract 4/5 - 3/10 = 1/5 by subtracting denominators = wrong answer! This ignores that fractions need the same denominator to subtract. Always find the LCD first and convert all fractions before subtracting numerators.

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 a whole. You can only subtract when the parts are the same size! Think of it like trying to subtract 4 apples from 3 oranges - you need to convert everything to the same 'unit' first.

How do I find the LCD quickly?

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Look at your denominators: 5, 10, and 5. Since 10 is already a multiple of 5, the LCD is 10! When one denominator divides evenly into another, the larger one is usually your LCD.

What if I get confused with multiple subtractions?

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Work left to right after converting to common denominators. So 810310210 \frac{8}{10} - \frac{3}{10} - \frac{2}{10} becomes 8 - 3 - 2 = 3 in the numerator, giving 310 \frac{3}{10} .

Do I need to simplify my final answer?

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Always check if you can simplify! In this case, 310 \frac{3}{10} cannot be simplified further because 3 and 10 share no common factors other than 1.

Can I use a different common denominator?

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Yes, but using the LCD (Least Common Denominator) keeps your numbers smaller and makes calculations easier. You could use 20 or 30, but why make it harder on yourself?

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