Question

Find the difference. use your answer in the simplest terms, using the slash ( / ) as the fraction bar.

1/2 - 1/4

Answer 1

1/4

Explanation:

You cannot subtract (or add) a fraction with different denominators so first, you need to find a common denominator. You can do this by finding the least common multiple (LCM).

Here the denominators are 2 and 4 so the LCM is 4.

After you find the LCM you need to multiply the denominator by a number that equals the LCM. Then multiply the numerator by that same number.

So convert both 1/2 and 1/4

1/4 x 1/1 = 1/4

1/2 x 2/2 = 2/4

Now we can just subtract the numerator from each other.

2/4 - 1/4 = 1/4

We cannot simplify the difference any more so keep it the same.