Solve Fraction Subtraction: 3/5 minus 2/5 Step-by-Step

Q: Why don't we subtract the denominators too?

The denominator tells us what size pieces we're working with. When subtracting fifths from fifths, we're still working with fifths, so the denominator stays 5!

Q: What if the first numerator is smaller than the second?

You can still subtract! For example, $ \frac{2}{7} - \frac{5}{7} = \frac{-3}{7} $. The result will be a negative fraction, which is perfectly valid.

Q: Do I need to simplify my answer?

Always check if your fraction can be simplified! For $ \frac{1}{5} $, since 1 and 5 share no common factors, it's already in lowest terms.

Q: What's the easiest way to check my work?

Use addition to check subtraction: $ \frac{1}{5} + \frac{2}{5} $ should equal $ \frac{3}{5} $. If it does, your answer is correct!

Fraction Subtraction with Common Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{3}{5}-\frac{2}{5}=\text{?}$

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

00:05 Let's solve this problem together!

00:08 First, we will count how many squares we have based on the data given.

00:13 Next, let's subtract squares using the correct fraction.

00:18 The squares left are your numerator, the top part of your fraction.

00:23 The total number of parts is your denominator, the bottom part.

00:28 And that's how we find the solution! Great job!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{3}{5}-\frac{2}{5}=\text{?}$

Step-by-step solution

Let's solve the subtraction of two fractions:

Step 1: Identify the fractions given:
The fractions are $\frac{3}{5}$ and $\frac{2}{5}$ , both having a common denominator of 5.

Step 2: Subtract the numerators while keeping the denominator the same:
The numerator result is $3 - 2 = 1$ .

Step 3: Retain the common denominator:
Thus, the result of the subtraction is $\frac{1}{5}$ .

Therefore, the solution to the problem is $\frac{1}{5}$ .

Final Answer

$\frac{1}{5}$

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Rule: When denominators are the same, subtract only the numerators
Technique: Keep denominator 5, subtract numerators: 3 - 2 = 1
Check: Verify $\frac{1}{5} + \frac{2}{5} = \frac{3}{5}$ ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Subtracting denominators along with numerators
Don't subtract both parts like $\frac{3-2}{5-5} = \frac{1}{0}$ which is undefined! This creates impossible fractions. Always keep the common denominator unchanged and only subtract the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{7}{5}-\frac{4}{5}=\text{?}$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why don't we subtract the denominators too?

The denominator tells us what size pieces we're working with. When subtracting fifths from fifths, we're still working with fifths, so the denominator stays 5!

What if the first numerator is smaller than the second?

You can still subtract! For example, $\frac{2}{7} - \frac{5}{7} = \frac{-3}{7}$ . The result will be a negative fraction, which is perfectly valid.

Do I need to simplify my answer?

Always check if your fraction can be simplified! For $\frac{1}{5}$ , since 1 and 5 share no common factors, it's already in lowest terms.

How can I visualize this problem?

Think of a pizza cut into 5 equal slices. You have 3 slices and eat 2 slices. You're left with 1 slice out of 5, which is $\frac{1}{5}$ !

What's the easiest way to check my work?

Use addition to check subtraction: $\frac{1}{5} + \frac{2}{5}$ should equal $\frac{3}{5}$ . If it does, your answer is correct!

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