Question
Subtract. \[ -\frac{5}{8}-\frac{1}{2} \] Write your answer in simplest form, \( \square \)
Ask by Murray Burton. in the United States
Jan 24,2025
Real Tutor Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
\(-\frac{9}{8}\)
Solution
To subtract \(-\frac{5}{8}\) and \(\frac{1}{2}\), follow these steps:
1. **Find a Common Denominator:**
The denominators are 8 and 2. The least common denominator (LCD) is 8.
2. **Convert \(\frac{1}{2}\) to Eighths:**
\[
\frac{1}{2} = \frac{4}{8}
\]
3. **Subtract the Fractions:**
\[
-\frac{5}{8} - \frac{4}{8} = -\frac{9}{8}
\]
4. **Simplify (if necessary):**
\(-\frac{9}{8}\) is already in its simplest form.
\[
\boxed{-\frac{9}{8}}
\]
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Simplify this solution Extra Insights
To subtract \( -\frac{5}{8} - \frac{1}{2} \), first convert \(\frac{1}{2}\) to have a common denominator of 8. This means: \[ \frac{1}{2} = \frac{4}{8} \] Now substitute this back into the equation: \[ -\frac{5}{8} - \frac{4}{8} = -\frac{5 + 4}{8} = -\frac{9}{8} \] The simplest form of the answer is: \[ -\frac{9}{8} \]
