Multiplying the first fraction by 3/3 and the second fraction by 2/2 will result in 18 for both denominators. Note that 3/3 and 2/2 are equal to 1, so we are actually multiplying both fractions by 1 and not changing the value of the fractions in any way.
- Step 3: Subtract the fractions
Now that the denominators are the same, we can subtract the fractions. Subtract the numerators to find the numerator of the solution. The denominator will remain the same.
Solution
The solution for 8 5/6 - 3 2/9 is 101/18.
Changing the Solution to a Mixed Fraction
In our example, we left the solution in the form of an improper fraction. Sometimes it is useful to convert the solution to a mixed fraction by dividing the numerator by the denominator. Dividing 101 by 18 gives us 5 with a remainder of 11. The remainder is written as a fraction using the denominator of the improper fraction.
How Do You Subtract Mixed Fractions with Different Denominators by Regrouping?
Note:
Subtracting mixed fractions with unlike denominators? You could first find a common denominator and use it to rewrite each fraction. Then, subtract the whole numbers and fractions separately. In this tutorial, take a look at subtracting mixed fractions with unlike denominators!
Keywords:
- problem
- subtract
- fraction
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- mixed number
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- mixed fractions
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- common denominator
- common denominators
- different denominators
- unlike denominators
- subtract mixed numbers
- subtract mixed fractions
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- improper fraction
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Background Tutorials
Adding Fractions
How Do You Add Fractions with the Same Denominator?
While adding fractions can be hard, adding fractions with the same denominator is just as easy as adding numbers. That's why when you add fractions you first get all of them to have the same denominator, and then add them up. In this tutorial you get to see just how easy it is to add up fractions once they have the same denominator!
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Subtracting Fractions
Fractions
What's a Mixed Number?
Fractions come in all sorts of flavors, and in this tutorial you'll learn how to recognize mixed numbers.
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Further Exploration
Adding Fractions
Subtracting Fractions