Solve the Fraction Equation: Subtracting 1/4 from 2/4

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

The denominator tells us the size of each piece we're working with. When we have $ \frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4} $, we're working with fourths the whole time, so the denominator stays 4!

Q: What if the denominators were different?

If denominators are different, you first need to find equivalent fractions with a common denominator, then subtract the numerators. Lucky for us, these already match!

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

Use addition to check subtraction! If $ \frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{4} $ is correct, then $ \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4} $ should equal $ \frac{2}{4} $. It does!

Fraction Subtraction with Common Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{2}{4}-\frac{1}{4}=\text{?}$

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

00:07 First, let's solve the problem step by step.

00:10 Next, subtract using the common denominator.

00:14 Now, let's calculate the numerator.

00:17 And that's how we find the solution to this problem.

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

$\frac{2}{4}-\frac{1}{4}=\text{?}$

Step-by-step solution

Let's solve the problem step-by-step:

Step 1: Identify the numerators: We have $\frac{2}{4}$ and $\frac{1}{4}$ . The numerators are 2 and 1, respectively.
Step 2: Subtraction of numerators: Subtract the second numerator from the first: $2 - 1 = 1$ .
Step 3: Maintain the common denominator: The common denominator is 4, so the result of the subtraction is $\frac{1}{4}$ .

The solution to the problem is that subtracting $\frac{1}{4}$ from $\frac{2}{4}$ gives us $\frac{1}{4}$ .

Therefore, the correct answer is:

$\frac{1}{4}$

Final Answer

$\frac{1}{4}$

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Rule: When denominators are equal, subtract only the numerators
Technique: Calculate $2 - 1 = 1$ , keep denominator 4
Check: Verify $\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{4}$ ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Subtracting denominators along with numerators
Don't calculate $\frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4}$ as $\frac{1}{0}$ by doing 2-1 and 4-4! This creates undefined expressions. 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 we subtract the denominators too?

The denominator tells us the size of each piece we're working with. When we have $\frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4}$ , we're working with fourths the whole time, so the denominator stays 4!

What if the denominators were different?

If denominators are different, you first need to find equivalent fractions with a common denominator, then subtract the numerators. Lucky for us, these already match!

How can I visualize this problem?

Think of a pizza cut into 4 equal slices. You have 2 slices $\frac{2}{4}$ and eat 1 slice $\frac{1}{4}$ . You're left with 1 slice out of 4, which is $\frac{1}{4}$ !

Should I simplify my answer?

Always check if your fraction can be simplified! In this case, $\frac{1}{4}$ is already in lowest terms since 1 and 4 share no common factors besides 1.

What's the easiest way to check my work?

Use addition to check subtraction! If $\frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{4}$ is correct, then $\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4}$ should equal $\frac{2}{4}$ . It does!

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