What is 1/2 - 2/3?
Calculate 1/2 - 2/3 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
1/2 - 2/3 = \frac{-1}{6}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{1}{2} - \frac{2}{3} = ?
Step 2
Find the Common Denominator
The denominators are different (2 and 3), so we need a common denominator.
The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 2 and 3 is 6.
\text{LCD}(2, 3) = 6
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 3
\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 3}{2 \times 3} = \frac{3}{6}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 2
\frac{2}{3} = \frac{2 \times 2}{3 \times 2} = \frac{4}{6}
Step 5
Subtract the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator.
\frac{3}{6} - \frac{4}{6} = \frac{3 - 4}{6} = \frac{-1}{6}
Step 6
Final Answer
The result is -1/6
As a decimal: -0.166667
\frac{1}{2} - \frac{2}{3} = \frac{-1}{6}