3/2 - 2
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to perform a mathematical operation, specifically the subtraction of 2 from the fraction 3/2. We will need to convert the fraction into a decimal or a common denominator to complete the operation.
Answer
$\frac{-1}{2}$
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is $\frac{-1}{2}$
Steps to Solve
- Convert the whole number to a fraction
We need to convert the whole number 2 to a fraction with the same denominator as $\frac{3}{2}$. The whole number 2 can be written as $\frac{4}{2}$.
$$2 = \frac{4}{2}$$
- Subtract the fractions
Next, we subtract $\frac{4}{2}$ from $\frac{3}{2}$. Since the denominators are the same, we simply subtract the numerators:
$$\frac{3}{2} - \frac{4}{2} = \frac{3-4}{2} = \frac{-1}{2}$$
- Simplify the result
The resulting fraction $\frac{-1}{2}$ is already in its simplest form.
The final answer is $\frac{-1}{2}$
More Information
Subtraction of a larger whole number from a smaller fraction can result in a negative fraction. Simple operations of fractions often involve converting whole numbers into fractions for consistency.
Tips
A common mistake is neglecting to convert the whole number into a fraction with a matching denominator before performing the subtraction. Always ensure that the fractions have the same denominator.
