Solve the following exercise:
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
Solve the following exercise:
To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:
Let's perform each of these steps:
Step 1: We have the fractions and .
Step 2: Find a common denominator. The denominators are 7 and 3, so the common denominator will be .
Step 3: Convert each fraction:
Step 4: Subtract the numerators:
.
Simplify if necessary: Here, is already in its simplest form.
Therefore, the solution to the problem is .
\( \frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{4}= \)
Because fractions represent parts of a whole, and you can only subtract parts when they're the same size! Think of it like subtracting 3 slices of a 7-piece pizza minus 1 slice of a 3-piece pizza - the slices are different sizes!
When the denominators don't share any common factors (like 7 and 3), multiply them together to get the LCD. For 7 and 3, since both are prime numbers, 21 is the smallest common multiple.
Yes, always check! Look for common factors between numerator and denominator. Since 2 and 21 share no common factors, is already fully simplified.
Use this rule: To convert to denominator 21, ask "7 times what equals 21?" The answer is 3, so multiply both top and bottom by 3!
Absolutely! Finding a common denominator works for both addition and subtraction of fractions. The only difference is you add the numerators instead of subtracting them.
That's totally fine! If the second fraction is larger than the first, your answer will be negative. Just follow the same steps and include the negative sign in your final answer.
Get unlimited access to all 18 Operations with Fractions questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime