What is 5/8 - 2/3?
Calculate 5/8 - 2/3 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
5/8 - 2/3 = \frac{-1}{24}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{5}{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{5}{8} = \frac{5 \times 3}{8 \times 3} = \frac{15}{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{15}{24} - \frac{16}{24} = \frac{15 - 16}{24} = \frac{-1}{24}
Step 6
Final Answer
The result is -1/24
As a decimal: -0.041667
\frac{5}{8} - \frac{2}{3} = \frac{-1}{24}