To subtract similar fractions (fractions with the same denominator), you keep the denominator and subtract the numerators.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Confirm Similar Denominators: Ensure that both fractions you are subtracting have the same denominator. If they don't, you'll need to find a common denominator first.
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Subtract the Numerators: Subtract the numerator of the second fraction from the numerator of the first fraction. This will give you the numerator of your answer.
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Keep the Denominator: The denominator of your answer will be the same as the denominator of the original fractions.
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Write the Result: Write the result as a new fraction with the difference of the numerators over the original denominator.
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Simplify (if possible): Check if the resulting fraction can be simplified. Divide both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF) to simplify.
Example:
Let's subtract 3/5 from 4/5.
- Similar Denominators: Both fractions have a denominator of 5.
- Subtract Numerators: 4 - 3 = 1
- Keep Denominator: The denominator remains 5.
- Write Result: The result is 1/5.
- Simplify: 1/5 is already in its simplest form.
Therefore, 4/5 - 3/5 = 1/5
Another Example:
Subtract 2/8 from 6/8
- Similar Denominators: Both fractions have a denominator of 8.
- Subtract Numerators: 6 - 2 = 4
- Keep Denominator: The denominator remains 8
- Write Result: The result is 4/8
- Simplify: Both 4 and 8 are divisible by 4. 4/4 = 1 and 8/4 = 2. Therefore, 4/8 simplified is 1/2.
Therefore 6/8 - 2/8 = 1/2
In summary, subtracting similar fractions is a straightforward process: keep the denominator the same, subtract the numerators, and simplify if possible.
