Solve the Fraction Subtraction: 2/3 - 1/6 Step by Step

Fraction Subtraction with Common Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

2316=? \frac{2}{3}-\frac{1}{6}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solve
00:03 Multiply by 2 to find the common denominator
00:08 Make sure to multiply both numerator and denominator
00:15 Calculate the multiplications
00:22 Divide by the common denominator
00:26 Calculate the numerator
00:31 Reduce the fraction as much as possible
00:35 Make sure to divide both numerator and denominator
00:40 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:

2316=? \frac{2}{3}-\frac{1}{6}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the problem 2316 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{6} , we follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Identify a common denominator for both fractions. Since 6 is a multiple of 3, we use 6 as the common denominator.
  • Step 2: Convert 23 \frac{2}{3} to a fraction with a denominator of 6. To do this, multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 2, giving 46 \frac{4}{6} .
  • Step 3: The fraction 16 \frac{1}{6} already has the desired denominator, so it remains 16 \frac{1}{6} .
  • Step 4: Perform the subtraction: 4616=36 \frac{4}{6} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{3}{6} .
  • Step 5: Simplify the resulting fraction. Simplify 36 \frac{3}{6} by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 3, resulting in 12 \frac{1}{2} .

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 12 \frac{1}{2} .

3

Final Answer

12 \frac{1}{2}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Find common denominator before subtracting fractions
  • Technique: Convert 23 \frac{2}{3} to 46 \frac{4}{6} by multiplying by 2
  • Check: Verify 4616=36=12 \frac{4}{6} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{3}{6} = \frac{1}{2}

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting denominators along with numerators
    Don't subtract like 2316=13 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{1}{-3} ! Denominators stay the same during subtraction, only numerators change. Always find a common denominator first, then subtract only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Solve the following exercise:

\( \frac{8}{5}-\frac{4}{5}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just subtract 2-1 and 3-6 separately?

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Because fractions represent parts of a whole, and you can't combine different-sized parts directly. You need equal-sized pieces (same denominator) before subtracting.

How do I know which common denominator to use?

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Use the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. For 3 and 6, since 6 is already a multiple of 3, use 6 as your common denominator.

Do I always need to simplify my answer?

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Yes! Always check if your answer can be simplified. 36 \frac{3}{6} simplifies to 12 \frac{1}{2} by dividing both parts by 3.

What if the denominators are both big numbers?

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The same process works! Find the LCM of both denominators, convert both fractions, then subtract. Just take your time with the arithmetic.

Can the answer be larger than the first fraction?

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No, when subtracting fractions, your answer will always be smaller than the first fraction. If you get a larger result, check your work!

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