Solve the following exercise:
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Solve the following exercise:
To solve this problem, we'll perform the following steps:
Let's proceed with the steps:
Step 1: The denominators of the given fractions are and . The LCD of and is since is the smallest multiple that both and divide into evenly.
Step 2: Convert each fraction to have a denominator of .
can be converted to an equivalent fraction with the denominator by multiplying the numerator and denominator by 3:
The second fraction already has the denominator , so it remains unchanged.
Step 3: Subtract the fractions: .
Since the denominators are now the same, subtract the numerators:
The resulting fraction is .
Step 4: Check if there is a need to simplify. The fraction is already in its simplest form.
Thus, the solution to the problem is .
Solve the following exercise:
\( \frac{3}{2}-\frac{1}{2}=\text{?} \)
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.
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.
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.
Yes! Always check if your final fraction can be simplified. Look for common factors in the numerator and denominator. In this case, is already simplified since 2 and 9 share no common factors.
You need to convert any fraction that doesn't already have the LCD. Here, already has denominator 9, so only needs converting.
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