Question

In January, the town water tower was 7/8 full. In April, it was 3/5 full. By what fraction did the water level decrease?

A) 7/8 - 3/5
B) 3/5 - 7/8
C) 3/5 + 7/8
D) 7/8 + 3/5

Answer 1

The water level decreased by 11/40.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the fraction by which the water level decreased, we need to subtract the initial water level from the final water level. The initial water level is 7/8 and the final water level is 3/5. So, the fraction by which the water level decreased is:

1. 
   
3. Convert the fractions to have the same denominator: 7/8 = 35/40 and 3/5 = 24/40.
4. 
   
6. Subtract the fractions: 35/40 - 24/40 = 11/40.