Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Math Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

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A board is 912\frac{9}{12} of a metre long. A piece of 512\frac{5}{12} of a metre is cut off. What length remains?

Solution

  1. 1
    Subtract: 912−512=9−512=412\frac{9}{12} - \frac{5}{12} = \frac{9-5}{12} = \frac{4}{12}.
  2. 2
    Simplify: gcd⁡(4,12)=4\gcd(4, 12) = 4, so 412=13\frac{4}{12} = \frac{1}{3}.
  3. 3
    The remaining board is 13\frac{1}{3} of a metre.

Answer

13 metre\frac{1}{3} \text{ metre}
When both quantities are expressed in the same fractional unit, subtraction is straightforward. Simplifying afterwards expresses the answer in its most concise form.

About Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators

Subtracting fractions that share the same denominator by subtracting the numerators and keeping the denominator.

Learn more about Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators →

More Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Examples

Example 1 easy

Subtract [formula].

Example 3 easy

Compute [formula].

Example 4 hard

You need [formula] cups of milk for a recipe, but only have [formula] of a cup. How much more milk d

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