Answer: 2 and 7/8
Step-by-step explanation: To subtract mixed numbers, we first subtract the fractions.
Notice that 1/2 and 5/8 are unlike fractions so we need a common denominator which in this case is 8.
If you need a review on how to find a common denominator for these 2 fractions, let me know in the comments below.
If we multiply the numerator and denominator of 1/2 by 4, we get the equivalent fraction 4/8. However, notice that 5/8 has the same denominator 4/8 so now we have like fractions.
So we have 4 and 4/8 - 1 and 5/8.
Notice here however that we have 4/8 - 5/8 which will give us a negative fraction. Since this will cause us a lot of trouble, instead, let's rewrite the first mixed number.
We can do this by thinking of 4 and 4/8 as 3 + 1 and 4/8 or 3 + 12/8.
So 4 and 4/8 can be written as 3 and 12/8.
So we have 3 and 12/8 - 1 and 5/8.
Now, subtract the fractions.
So we have 12/8 - 5/8 which is 7/8.
Then subtract the whole numbers.
3 - 1 is 2.
2 and 7/8 is in lowest terms so 4 and 1/2 - 1 and 5/8 is 2 and 7/8.
Image provided.
