Solve Fraction Subtraction: 6/8 minus 3/8 Step-by-Step

Fraction Subtraction with Common Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

6838=? \frac{6}{8}-\frac{3}{8}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 Subtract in the common denominator
00:09 Calculate the numerator
00:12 And 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:

6838=? \frac{6}{8}-\frac{3}{8}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Identify the given fractions and note their common denominator.
  • Step 2: Subtract the numerators.
  • Step 3: Write down the resulting fraction and simplify if needed.
  • Step 4: Determine which of the choices matches our result.

Now, let's work through each step:

Step 1: We have the fractions 68\frac{6}{8} and 38\frac{3}{8} with a common denominator of 8.

Step 2: Subtract the numerators: 63=3 6 - 3 = 3 .

Step 3: The resulting fraction is 38\frac{3}{8}. There is no need for simplification as this fraction is already in its simplest form.

Step 4: The correct choice is the one that matches 38\frac{3}{8}, which according to the list of choices, is Choice 2.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 38\frac{3}{8}.

3

Final Answer

38 \frac{3}{8}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Subtract numerators when denominators are the same
  • Technique: Keep denominator 8, subtract: 6 - 3 = 3
  • Check: Verify 38 \frac{3}{8} is in simplest form ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting denominators along with numerators
    Don't subtract denominators: 6/8 - 3/8 ≠ 3/0! This creates undefined or meaningless fractions. Always keep the common denominator unchanged and only subtract the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Solve the following exercise:

\( \frac{3}{2}-\frac{1}{2}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why don't I subtract the denominators too?

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The denominator tells you what size pieces you're working with. If you have eighths minus eighths, you're still working with eighths - only the number of pieces changes!

What if the fractions had different denominators?

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You'd need to find a common denominator first! Convert both fractions so they have the same bottom number, then subtract the numerators.

How do I know if my answer needs to be simplified?

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Check if the numerator and denominator share any common factors. Since 3 and 8 don't share factors other than 1, 38 \frac{3}{8} is already simplified!

Can I convert to decimals instead?

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You could, but fractions are often more exact! 38=0.375 \frac{3}{8} = 0.375 , but keeping it as a fraction shows the precise relationship.

What if I get a negative answer?

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That's possible! If you subtract a larger numerator from a smaller one (like 2858 \frac{2}{8} - \frac{5}{8} ), you'll get 38 -\frac{3}{8} .

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