Clue 1: Start At $5 \frac{3}{8}$. Move $\frac{1}{8}$ To The Left. Complete The Equation To Show Your New Location As A Mixed Number.$5 \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8} = ? ? ? ?$

Introduction

Mixed numbers are a combination of a whole number and a fraction. When subtracting a fraction from a mixed number, it's essential to understand the concept of moving the fraction to the left. In this article, we will explore how to solve mixed number subtraction by moving the fraction to the left and completing the equation.

Understanding Mixed Numbers

A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. It is written in the form of:

$$a \frac{b}{c}$$

Where:

• $a$ is the whole number part
• $b$ is the numerator of the fraction
• $c$ is the denominator of the fraction

For example, $5 \frac{3}{8}$ is a mixed number where $5$ is the whole number part, $3$ is the numerator, and $8$ is the denominator.

Moving the Fraction to the Left

When subtracting a fraction from a mixed number, we need to move the fraction to the left. This means that we need to subtract the fraction from the whole number part.

Example: $5 \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8}$

Let's solve the equation $5 \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8}$.

To move the fraction to the left, we need to subtract $\frac{1}{8}$ from the whole number part $5$. Since the denominator is the same, we can simply subtract the numerators.

$$5 - 0 = 5$$

Now, we need to subtract the fraction $\frac{1}{8}$ from the result. To do this, we need to find a common denominator for the whole number part and the fraction. In this case, the common denominator is $8$.

$$5 = 5 \times \frac{8}{8} = \frac{40}{8}$$

Now, we can subtract the fraction:

$$\frac{40}{8} - \frac{1}{8} = \frac{40-1}{8} = \frac{39}{8}$$

Converting the Result to a Mixed Number

The result $\frac{39}{8}$ is an improper fraction. To convert it to a mixed number, we need to divide the numerator by the denominator.

$$\frac{39}{8} = 4 \frac{7}{8}$$

Therefore, the solution to the equation $5 \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8}$ is $4 \frac{7}{8}$.

Conclusion

In this article, we explored how to solve mixed number subtraction by moving the fraction to the left and completing the equation. We used the example $5 \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8}$ to demonstrate the steps involved in solving the equation. By following these steps, you can solve mixed number subtraction problems with ease.

Tips and Tricks

• When subtracting a fraction from a mixed number, make sure to move the fraction to the left.
• Find a common denominator for the whole number part and the fraction.
• Subtract the numerators to find the result.
• Convert the result to a mixed number by dividing the numerator by the denominator.

Practice Problems

Try solving the following mixed number subtraction problems:

• $6 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = ? ? ? ?$
• $3 \frac{5}{6} - \frac{2}{6} = ? ? ? ?$
• $4 \frac{7}{8} - \frac{3}{8} = ? ? ? ?$

Answer Key

• $6 \frac{2}{3} - \frac{1}{3} = 6 \frac{1}{3}$
• $3 \frac{5}{6} - \frac{2}{6} = 3 \frac{3}{6} = 3 \frac{1}{2}$
• $4 \frac{7}{8} - \frac{3}{8} = 4 \frac{4}{8} = 4 \frac{1}{2}$
  Mixed Number Subtraction: Frequently Asked Questions =====================================================

Q: What is mixed number subtraction?

A: Mixed number subtraction is the process of subtracting a fraction from a mixed number. It involves moving the fraction to the left and completing the equation to show the new location as a mixed number.

Q: How do I move the fraction to the left?

A: To move the fraction to the left, you need to subtract the fraction from the whole number part. Since the denominator is the same, you can simply subtract the numerators.

Q: What is the common denominator?

A: The common denominator is the smallest number that both the whole number part and the fraction can be divided by. In the case of mixed number subtraction, the common denominator is usually the denominator of the fraction.

Q: How do I find the common denominator?

A: To find the common denominator, you need to identify the denominator of the fraction and the denominator of the whole number part. If the denominators are different, you need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the two denominators.

Q: What is the least common multiple (LCM)?

A: The least common multiple (LCM) is the smallest number that both numbers can be divided by. For example, the LCM of 2 and 3 is 6.

Q: How do I subtract the numerators?

A: To subtract the numerators, you need to subtract the numerator of the fraction from the numerator of the whole number part.

Q: What if the numerator of the fraction is larger than the numerator of the whole number part?

A: If the numerator of the fraction is larger than the numerator of the whole number part, you need to borrow from the whole number part to make the subtraction possible.

Q: How do I borrow from the whole number part?

A: To borrow from the whole number part, you need to subtract 1 from the whole number part and add 10 to the numerator of the whole number part.

Q: What if I get a negative result?

A: If you get a negative result, it means that the fraction is larger than the whole number part. In this case, you need to change the sign of the result to make it positive.

Q: Can I use a calculator to solve mixed number subtraction problems?

A: Yes, you can use a calculator to solve mixed number subtraction problems. However, it's always a good idea to check your work by hand to make sure you get the correct answer.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving mixed number subtraction problems?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving mixed number subtraction problems include:

• Forgetting to move the fraction to the left
• Not finding the common denominator
• Subtracting the numerators incorrectly
• Not borrowing from the whole number part when necessary
• Getting a negative result without changing the sign

Q: How can I practice mixed number subtraction?

A: You can practice mixed number subtraction by working on problems in a textbook or online resource. You can also try creating your own problems to solve.