What is 5/6 - 1/2?
Calculate 5/6 - 1/2 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
5/6 - 1/2 = \frac{1}{3}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{5}{6} - \frac{1}{2} = ?
Step 2
Find the Common Denominator
The denominators are different (6 and 2), so we need a common denominator.
The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 6 and 2 is 6.
\text{LCD}(6, 2) = 6
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 1
\frac{5}{6} = \frac{5 \times 1}{6 \times 1} = \frac{5}{6}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 3
\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 3}{2 \times 3} = \frac{3}{6}
Step 5
Subtract the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator.
\frac{5}{6} - \frac{3}{6} = \frac{5 - 3}{6} = \frac{2}{6}
Step 6
Simplify the Result
Divide both by their GCF (2)
\frac{2}{6} = \frac{2 \div 2}{6 \div 2} = \frac{1}{3}
Step 7
Final Answer
The result is 1/3
As a decimal: 0.333333
\frac{5}{6} - \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{3}