What is 1/8 - 2/3?

Calculate 1/8 - 2/3 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.

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Answer: 1/8 - 2/3 = \frac{-13}{24}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1 Identify the Fractions

To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).

\frac{1}{8} - \frac{2}{3} = ?
Step 2 Find the Common Denominator

The denominators are different (8 and 3), so we need a common denominator.

The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 8 and 3 is 24.

\text{LCD}(8, 3) = 24
Step 3 Convert First Fraction

Multiply top and bottom by 3

\frac{1}{8} = \frac{1 \times 3}{8 \times 3} = \frac{3}{24}
Step 4 Convert Second Fraction

Multiply top and bottom by 8

\frac{2}{3} = \frac{2 \times 8}{3 \times 8} = \frac{16}{24}
Step 5 Subtract the Fractions

Now both fractions have the same denominator.

\frac{3}{24} - \frac{16}{24} = \frac{3 - 16}{24} = \frac{-13}{24}
Step 6 Final Answer

The result is -13/24

As a decimal: -0.541667

\frac{1}{8} - \frac{2}{3} = \frac{-13}{24}