To subtract fractions that have the same denominator, you simply subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.
Steps for Subtracting Equal Fractions:
- Ensure the denominators are the same: This is crucial for the method to work directly.
- Subtract the numerators: Perform the subtraction operation on the numbers in the numerator (top part) of the fractions.
- Keep the denominator: The denominator (bottom part) of the fractions remains the same.
- Simplify (if needed): Reduce the resulting fraction to its simplest form, if possible.
Example:
Let's subtract 3/5 from 4/5.
-
Fractions: 4/5 - 3/5
-
Numerators: 4 and 3
-
Denominators: Both are 5 (same denominator)
So, (4 - 3) / 5 = 1/5
Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Equal Denominators:
When dealing with mixed numbers that have the same denominators, the process involves two steps:
- Subtract the whole numbers.
- Subtract the fractions.
For example, if you have 3 2/7 - 1 1/7:
- Subtract the whole numbers: 3 - 1 = 2
- Subtract the fractions: 2/7 - 1/7 = (2-1)/7 = 1/7
- Combine the results: 2 + 1/7 = 2 1/7
Table Summary:
| Step | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check Denominators | Make sure the denominators of both fractions are identical. | Both fractions have 5. |
| 2. Subtract Numerators | Subtract the numerator of the second fraction from the first. | 4 - 3 = 1 |
| 3. Keep Denominator | Write the result with the same denominator. | Result: /5 |
| 4. Simplify | Reduce the fraction to its simplest form if possible (not needed here). | 1/5 is simplified. |
In essence, subtracting equal fractions involves a straightforward subtraction of the numerators while maintaining the common denominator. If dealing with mixed numbers, address the whole numbers and fractional parts separately.
