Final answer:
When subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, you need to find a common denominator. Then, you subtract the numerators and simplify the resulting fraction if needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
When subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, you need to find a common denominator. Here are the steps:
- Find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators.
- Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCM as the denominator.
- Subtract the numerators of the fractions.
- Simplify the resulting fraction if needed.
For example, let's subtract 5/6 - 3/5:
- The LCM of 6 and 5 is 30.
- Convert 5/6 to an equivalent fraction with 30 as the denominator: (5/6) * (5/5) = 25/30.
- Convert 3/5 to an equivalent fraction with 30 as the denominator: (3/5) * (6/6) = 18/30.
- Subtract the numerators: 25/30 - 18/30 = 7/30.
So, 5/6 - 3/5 = 7/30.