Solve Mixed Number Subtraction: 1⅔ - 1⅓

Mixed Number Subtraction with Same Denominators

123113= 1\frac{2}{3}-1\frac{1}{3}=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 First, let's break down each mixed fraction into a whole number and a fraction
00:22 Subtract
00:29 Let's use the commutative property and arrange the exercise in a convenient way to solve
00:33 Calculate the difference of the whole numbers
00:41 Subtract with common denominator
00:48 This is the sum of fractions, now let's add it to the sum of numbers
00:51 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

123113= 1\frac{2}{3}-1\frac{1}{3}=

2

Step-by-step solution

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

  • Step 1: Decompose each mixed number into its whole and fractional parts.
  • Step 2: Subtract the whole numbers.
  • Step 3: Subtract the fractional parts having the same denominator.
  • Step 4: Combine the results to find the final answer.

Now, let's work through each step:

Step 1: Decompose the mixed numbers.
- The first mixed number is 1231\frac{2}{3}, which can be expressed as the whole number 1 and the fraction 23\frac{2}{3}.
- The second mixed number is 1131\frac{1}{3}, which can be expressed as the whole number 1 and the fraction 13\frac{1}{3}.

Step 2: Subtract the whole numbers.
- Subtract the whole numbers: 11=01 - 1 = 0.

Step 3: Subtract the fractional parts.
- Subtract the fractions: 2313=13\frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = \frac{1}{3}.

Step 4: Combine the results.
- Since the whole number result is 0, the result of the fractional subtraction 13\frac{1}{3} is the final answer.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 13\frac{1}{3}.

3

Final Answer

13 \frac{1}{3}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Subtract whole numbers and fractions separately when possible
  • Technique: 2313=13 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = \frac{1}{3} since denominators match
  • Check: Convert to improper fractions: 5343=13 \frac{5}{3} - \frac{4}{3} = \frac{1}{3}

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting denominators along with numerators
    Don't subtract 2313 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} as 10 \frac{1}{0} ! This creates undefined results because denominators stay the same in fraction subtraction. Always keep the common denominator and only subtract the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 5\frac{2}{5}+2\frac{1}{5}= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why don't I subtract the denominators too?

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The denominator tells us what size pieces we're working with. When subtracting 2313 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} , we're taking away 1 third from 2 thirds, leaving 1 third. The pieces stay the same size!

What if the whole numbers are the same like in this problem?

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When whole numbers are equal, they subtract to give zero! So 123113 1\frac{2}{3} - 1\frac{1}{3} becomes just 2313=13 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = \frac{1}{3} .

Should I convert to improper fractions first?

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Both methods work! You can subtract the parts separately (easier) or convert to improper fractions first. Try both: 5343=13 \frac{5}{3} - \frac{4}{3} = \frac{1}{3} gives the same answer.

How do I know my answer is in simplest form?

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Check if the numerator and denominator share any common factors. Since 1 and 3 only share the factor 1, 13 \frac{1}{3} is already simplified!

What if I need to borrow from the whole number?

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You don't need to borrow here since 23>13 \frac{2}{3} > \frac{1}{3} . But when the first fraction is smaller, convert 1 whole to fractions and add to the fractional part before subtracting.

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