How to Subtract Mixed Numbers with Unlike Denominators

Understanding Mixed Number Subtraction

• 🎯 The core concept is subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators, which requires finding common denominators for the fractional parts.
• 💡 When subtracting a mixed number like -2 and 1/3, the negative sign must be applied to both the whole number and the fraction, meaning -2 - 1/3.

Step-by-Step Example 1: 7 4/5 - 2 1/3

• ➕ First, combine the whole numbers: 7 - 2 = 5.
• ➖ Next, focus on subtracting the fractions: 4/5 - 1/3.
• 🧮 To subtract fractions, find a common denominator. Multiply 4/5 by 3/3 to get 12/15, and multiply 1/3 by 5/5 to get 5/15.
• 🧮 Subtract the numerators: 12 - 5 = 7. The resulting fraction is 7/15.
• 🌟 Combine the whole number result with the fraction: 5 + 7/15 = 5 7/15.

Step-by-Step Example 2: 6 2/3 - 4 1/5

• ➕ Separate the mixed numbers into whole numbers and fractions: (6 - 4) and (2/3 - 1/5).
• 🧮 Combine the whole numbers: 6 - 4 = 2.
• 🧮 Find a common denominator for 2/3 and 1/5. Multiply 2/3 by 5/5 to get 10/15, and multiply 1/5 by 3/3 to get 3/15.
• 🧮 Subtract the numerators: 10 - 3 = 7. The resulting fraction is 7/15.
• 🌟 Combine the whole number result with the fraction: 2 + 7/15 = 2 7/15.