Select The Best Answer For The Question:Subtract: $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$.A. $2 \frac{1}{3}$B. $2^{2 / 3}$C. $1^{2 / 3}$D. $3 \frac{1}{3}$

Introduction

When it comes to subtracting mixed numbers, it's essential to understand the concept of mixed numbers and how to convert them into improper fractions. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of subtracting $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$ and provide a clear explanation of the solution.

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, $b$ is the numerator, and $c$ is the denominator. For example, $3 \frac{1}{3}$ is a mixed number where $3$ is the whole number, $1$ is the numerator, and $3$ is the denominator.

Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions

To subtract mixed numbers, it's often easier to convert them into improper fractions. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator. To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, we multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator. The result is then written as the new numerator over the denominator.

For example, to convert $3 \frac{1}{3}$ to an improper fraction, we multiply $3$ by $3$ and add $1$, which gives us $10$. So, $3 \frac{1}{3}$ is equal to $\frac{10}{3}$.

Subtracting $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$

Now that we understand mixed numbers and how to convert them into improper fractions, let's tackle the problem of subtracting $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$. To do this, we need to convert $5$ into an improper fraction. Since $5$ is a whole number, we can write it as $\frac{15}{3}$.

Now that we have both numbers in improper fraction form, we can subtract them. To subtract $\frac{15}{3} - \frac{10}{3}$, we subtract the numerators while keeping the denominator the same. This gives us $\frac{5}{3}$.

Converting $\frac{5}{3}$ Back to a Mixed Number

To convert $\frac{5}{3}$ back to a mixed number, we divide the numerator by the denominator. This gives us $1$ with a remainder of $2$. So, $\frac{5}{3}$ is equal to $1 \frac{2}{3}$.

Conclusion

In conclusion, subtracting $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$ requires us to convert both numbers into improper fractions and then subtract them. The result is $\frac{5}{3}$, which can be converted back to a mixed number as $1 \frac{2}{3}$. This solution is the correct answer to the problem.

Answer

Q: What is the difference between a mixed number and an improper fraction?

A: A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction, while an improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

Q: How do I convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?

A: To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, you multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator. The result is then written as the new numerator over the denominator.

Q: Can you give an example of converting a mixed number to an improper fraction?

A: Yes, let's take the mixed number $3 \frac{1}{3}$. To convert it to an improper fraction, we multiply $3$ by $3$ and add $1$, which gives us $10$. So, $3 \frac{1}{3}$ is equal to $\frac{10}{3}$.

Q: How do I subtract mixed numbers?

A: To subtract mixed numbers, you need to convert both numbers into improper fractions and then subtract them. You can then convert the result back to a mixed number if needed.

Q: Can you give an example of subtracting mixed numbers?

A: Yes, let's take the problem of subtracting $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$. To do this, we need to convert $5$ into an improper fraction, which is $\frac{15}{3}$. We then subtract $\frac{15}{3} - \frac{10}{3}$, which gives us $\frac{5}{3}$. Finally, we convert $\frac{5}{3}$ back to a mixed number, which is $1 \frac{2}{3}$.

Q: What is the correct answer to the problem $5 - 3 \frac{1}{3}$?

A: The correct answer is $1 \frac{2}{3}$.

Q: Why is it important to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions when subtracting?

A: Converting mixed numbers to improper fractions makes it easier to subtract them. It allows you to perform the subtraction operation in a more straightforward way, without having to deal with the complexities of mixed numbers.

Q: Can you give some tips for working with mixed numbers and improper fractions?

A: Yes, here are some tips:

• Make sure to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions before performing any operations.
• When subtracting mixed numbers, convert both numbers to improper fractions and then subtract them.
• When converting improper fractions back to mixed numbers, divide the numerator by the denominator and write the result as a mixed number.
• Practice, practice, practice! Working with mixed numbers and improper fractions takes practice, so make sure to do plenty of examples to build your skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, subtracting mixed numbers requires a clear understanding of mixed numbers and improper fractions. By converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and then subtracting them, you can perform the operation in a more straightforward way. Remember to practice working with mixed numbers and improper fractions to build your skills and become more confident in your math abilities.