Solve the Fraction Expression: 4/10 + 1/5 - 1/2

Fraction Addition and Subtraction with Mixed Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

410+1512=? \frac{4}{10}+\frac{1}{5}-\frac{1}{2}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 We want to find the least common denominator
00:14 Therefore multiply by 2 and 5 respectively for common denominator 10
00:19 Remember to multiply both numerator and denominator
00:26 Calculate the multiplications
00:36 Add under common denominator
00:43 Calculate the numerator, one operation at a time
00:52 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:

410+1512=? \frac{4}{10}+\frac{1}{5}-\frac{1}{2}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the expression 410+1512 \frac{4}{10} + \frac{1}{5} - \frac{1}{2} , we will follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Find a Common Denominator
    The denominators we have are 10, 5, and 2. The least common denominator (LCD) among these numbers is 10.

  • Step 2: Convert Fractions to Equivalent Fractions with the LCD
    - 410 \frac{4}{10} is already using 10 as the denominator.
    - 15=1×25×2=210 \frac{1}{5} = \frac{1 \times 2}{5 \times 2} = \frac{2}{10} .
    - 12=1×52×5=510 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 5}{2 \times 5} = \frac{5}{10} .

  • Step 3: Perform the Arithmetic Operations
    Substitute the converted fractions into the original expression:
    410+210510 \frac{4}{10} + \frac{2}{10} - \frac{5}{10}
    Combine the numerators over the common denominator:
    4+2510=110 \frac{4 + 2 - 5}{10} = \frac{1}{10}

  • Step 4: Simplify the Result
    The fraction 110 \frac{1}{10} is already in its simplest form.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 110 \frac{1}{10} .

3

Final Answer

110 \frac{1}{10}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • LCD Rule: Find the least common denominator before adding or subtracting fractions
  • Technique: Convert 15=210 \frac{1}{5} = \frac{2}{10} and 12=510 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{10}
  • Check: Verify 4+2510=110 \frac{4+2-5}{10} = \frac{1}{10} by calculating step by step ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding or subtracting fractions without finding a common denominator
    Don't just add numerators and denominators separately like 410+15=515 \frac{4}{10} + \frac{1}{5} = \frac{5}{15} ! This creates completely wrong answers because you're not adding equal-sized pieces. Always convert all fractions to the same denominator first, then add or subtract only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Complete the following exercise:

\( \frac{3}{4}:\frac{5}{6}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

How do I find the least common denominator with 10, 5, and 2?

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List the multiples of each number: 10: 10, 20, 30... 5: 5, 10, 15... 2: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10... The smallest number that appears in all lists is 10!

Why can't I just add the fractions as they are?

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Fractions must have the same denominator to add or subtract them! Think of it like pizza slices - you can't add quarters and halves directly because they're different-sized pieces.

What if the LCD isn't one of the original denominators?

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That's totally normal! Sometimes you need to convert all fractions to a new denominator. For example, with denominators 3 and 4, the LCD would be 12, requiring you to change both fractions.

Do I always subtract from left to right?

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Yes! Follow the order exactly as written: 410+210510 \frac{4}{10} + \frac{2}{10} - \frac{5}{10} means add first, then subtract. Order matters in subtraction!

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

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Check if the numerator and denominator share any common factors. Since 1 and 10 share no common factors other than 1, 110 \frac{1}{10} is already simplified!

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