3/8 - (5/12)
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to perform the mathematical operation of subtraction with fractions, specifically subtracting two fractions from each other. We will need to find a common denominator to solve this.
Answer
The answer is $-\frac{1}{24}$.
Answer for screen readers
The result of the subtraction is $-\frac{1}{24}$.
Steps to Solve
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Identify the fractions
The fractions to subtract are $\frac{3}{8}$ and $\frac{5}{12}$. -
Find a common denominator
The denominators are 8 and 12. The least common denominator (LCD) is 24. -
Convert fractions to have the common denominator
Convert $\frac{3}{8}$:
$$ \frac{3}{8} = \frac{3 \times 3}{8 \times 3} = \frac{9}{24} $$
Convert $\frac{5}{12}$:
$$ \frac{5}{12} = \frac{5 \times 2}{12 \times 2} = \frac{10}{24} $$
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Subtract the converted fractions
Now, perform the subtraction:
$$ \frac{9}{24} - \frac{10}{24} = \frac{9 - 10}{24} = \frac{-1}{24} $$ -
Simplify the result
The fraction $\frac{-1}{24}$ is already in its simplest form.
The result of the subtraction is $-\frac{1}{24}$.
More Information
Subtracting fractions requires a common denominator to combine them effectively. The negative result indicates that $\frac{5}{12}$ is larger than $\frac{3}{8}$.
Tips
- Failing to find the least common denominator, which can lead to incorrect additions or subtractions.
- Not converting both fractions before attempting to subtract, resulting in difficulty in arithmetic.
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