Final answer:
To subtract mixed numbers, we need to find a common denominator for the fractions, convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions, subtract the fractions, combine the whole numbers, and simplify the result. In this case, the answer is -2 1/2.
Step-by-step explanation:
To subtract 7 ²/4 from 2 1/2, we need to find a common denominator for the fractions. The common denominator for 4 and 2 is 4. Converting 7 ²/4 to an improper fraction, we get 7 ²/4 = (7 * 4 + 2)/4 = 30/4. Now we can subtract the fractions: 2 1/2 - 30/4. Combining the whole numbers, we get 2 - 7 = -5. For the fractional part, the common denominator is 4, so we have 1/2 - 30/4 = 2/4 - 30/4 = -28/4. Simplifying -5 - 28/4 gives us -5 - 7 = -12. Writing this as a mixed number, we have -12 = -2 - 2/4 = -2 1/2.
Learn more about subtracting mixed numbers