Answer:
D. 2 1/4.
Explanation:
First, convert both -5 1/4 and -7 1/2 into improper fraction. These would be -21/4 and -15/2.
-21/4 - (-15/2)
Two negatives in a row make a positive.
-21/4 + 15/2
Double both the numerator and denominator of 15/2 to make it have the same denominator as -21/4. This would 30/4.
-21/4 + 30/4
Put -21 + 30 over 4 to make it a single fraction.
(-21 + 30)/4
Add -21 and 30 to get 9.
9/4
Convert 9/4 into a mixed number: 2 1/4
The answer to -5 1/4 - (-7 1/2) is 2 1/4, which is D.