How To Subtract Mixed Numbers (Example)

TL;DR

Learn how to subtract mixed numbers with improper fractions by converting them to the same denominator and following the subtraction process.

Transcript

hello in this video we're going to subtract two mixed numbers so hopefully after watching this video you'll know how to do this so we have a minus sign here so we're basically taking 5 and 1 6 and we're subtracting it from this so there's a couple ways to do this what we're going to do first is convert these into what's called improper fractions to... Read More

Key Insights

• #️⃣ Subtracting mixed numbers with improper fractions involves converting them to the same denominator.
• ❓ Finding a common denominator or the least common denominator simplifies the subtraction process.
• 🍃 The final result can be left as an improper fraction or written as a mixed number.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do you convert mixed numbers to improper fractions?

To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator. Write the sum over the original denominator. Example: For 5 1/6, multiply 6 by 5 and add 1, resulting in 31/6.

Q: What is a common denominator?

A common denominator is a number that both denominators can divide evenly into. It allows for easier subtraction of fractions. Example: In the video, 12 is chosen as the common denominator for 6 and 4.

Q: How do you find the least common denominator?

The least common denominator (LCD) is the smallest number that both denominators can divide evenly into. In the video, the presenter suggests finding a number that can be divided by both numbers in question. Example: 12 is the LCD for 6 and 4 because both 6 and 4 divide evenly into 12.

Q: What is the process for subtracting mixed numbers with improper fractions?

After converting the mixed numbers to improper fractions and finding a common denominator, subtract the numerators and write the result over the common denominator. Example: For the subtraction 31/12 - 15/12, subtract 15 from 31 to get 16, and write it over 12, resulting in 16/12.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• In this video, the presenter teaches how to subtract mixed numbers with improper fractions.

• The first step is to convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions.

• Next, find a common denominator or the least common denominator and subtract the fractions.