What is 5 1/2 - 1 2/3

3 5 / 6

Step-by-step explanation:

Conversion a mixed number 5 1 / 2 to a improper fraction: 5 1/2 = 5 1 / 2

= 5 · 2 + 1 / 2 = 10 + 1 / 2 = 11 / 2

To find new numerator:

a) Multiply the whole number 5 by the denominator 2. Whole number 5 equally 5 * 2 / 2 = 10 / 2

b) Add the answer from previous step 10 to the numerator 1. New numerator is 10 + 1 = 11

c) Write previous answer (new numerator 11) over the denominator 2.

Five and one half is eleven halfs

Conversion a mixed number 1 2 / 3 to a improper fraction: 1 2/3 = 1 2 / 3 = 1 · 3 + 2 / 3 = 3 + 2 / 3 = 5 / 3

To find new numerator:

a) Multiply the whole number 1 by the denominator 3. Whole number 1 equally 1 * 3 / 3 = 3 / 3

b) Add the answer from previous step 3 to the numerator 2. New numerator is 3 + 2 = 5

c) Write previous answer (new numerator 5) over the denominator 3.

One and two thirds is five thirds

Subtract: 11 / 2 - 5 / 3 = 11 · 3 / 2 · 3 - 5 · 2 / 3 · 2 = 33 / 6 - 10 / 6 = 33 - 10 / 6 = 23 / 6

Simplify : 23/6 divide = 3 5/6