Solve the Fraction Subtraction: 2/3 minus 4/9

Fraction Subtraction with Different Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

2349=? \frac{2}{3}-\frac{4}{9}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:06 Let's solve this step by step.
00:09 First, multiply both the numerator and the denominator by three.
00:14 This helps us find a common denominator. Remember, multiply top and bottom!
00:20 Next, calculate the products. Take your time!
00:26 Now, subtract using the common denominator.
00:31 Then, let's calculate the new numerator together.
00:35 Great work! This is how we find the solution to the problem.

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

2349=? \frac{2}{3}-\frac{4}{9}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll perform the following steps:

  • Step 1: Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 33 and 99.
  • Step 2: Convert each fraction to have the LCD as its denominator.
  • Step 3: Subtract the numerators of the converted fractions.
  • Step 4: Simplify the resulting fraction if needed.

Let's proceed with the steps:

Step 1: The denominators of the given fractions are 33 and 99. The LCD of 33 and 99 is 99 since 99 is the smallest multiple that both 33 and 99 divide into evenly.

Step 2: Convert each fraction to have a denominator of 99.

23 \frac{2}{3} can be converted to an equivalent fraction with the denominator 99 by multiplying the numerator and denominator by 3:

23×33=69 \frac{2}{3} \times \frac{3}{3} = \frac{6}{9}

The second fraction 49 \frac{4}{9} already has the denominator 99, so it remains unchanged.

Step 3: Subtract the fractions: 6949 \frac{6}{9} - \frac{4}{9} .

Since the denominators are now the same, subtract the numerators:

64=2 6 - 4 = 2

The resulting fraction is 29 \frac{2}{9} .

Step 4: Check if there is a need to simplify. The fraction 29 \frac{2}{9} is already in its simplest form.

Thus, the solution to the problem is 29 \frac{2}{9} .

3

Final Answer

29 \frac{2}{9}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Find LCD before subtracting fractions with different denominators
  • Technique: Convert 23 \frac{2}{3} to 69 \frac{6}{9} by multiplying by 33 \frac{3}{3}
  • Check: Verify 6949=29 \frac{6}{9} - \frac{4}{9} = \frac{2}{9} is simplified ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Subtracting numerators and denominators separately
    Don't subtract 2349 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{4}{9} as 2439=26 \frac{2-4}{3-9} = \frac{-2}{-6} ! This completely ignores fraction rules and gives wrong results. Always find the LCD first, then convert both fractions before subtracting only 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 can't I just subtract 2-4 and 3-9?

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Because fractions represent parts of a whole, not separate numbers! You need the same denominator (same-sized pieces) before combining. It's like trying to subtract 2 apples from 4 oranges - you need the same units first.

How do I find the LCD of 3 and 9?

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List multiples of each number: 3: 3, 6, 9, 12... and 9: 9, 18, 27... The smallest number that appears in both lists is 9, so LCD = 9.

What if the LCD is a big number?

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Don't worry! Even with large LCDs, the process stays the same. Convert each fraction, subtract the numerators, then simplify if possible. The math works the same way.

Do I always need to simplify my answer?

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Yes! Always check if your final fraction can be simplified. Look for common factors in the numerator and denominator. In this case, 29 \frac{2}{9} is already simplified since 2 and 9 share no common factors.

Can I convert the second fraction instead of the first?

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You need to convert any fraction that doesn't already have the LCD. Here, 49 \frac{4}{9} already has denominator 9, so only 23 \frac{2}{3} needs converting.

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