Fractions mathematics can’t resolve

Question

Which equivalent fractions can I use to find the difference of 5 3/12 and 1 4/9

Answer 1

Which equivalent fractions can I use to find the difference of 5 3/12 and 1 4/9

The LCM of 9 and 12 is 36.

5 3/12, or 5 1/4, is a mixed number. It is 21/4 or 189/36 as an improper fraction.

1 4/9 is a mixed number. It is 13/9 or 52/36 as an improper fraction.

Now you may subtract. 189/36 - 52/36 = (189-52)/36 = 137/36 (also an improper fraction)

As a mixed number, 137/36 is 3 29/36

Answer 2

5 3/12 - 1 4/9 = 5 1/4 - 1 4/9 (LCD = 36)

= 5 9/36 - 1 16/36 [Borrow 1 (36/36) from 5 and add it to 9/36]

= 4 45/36 - 1 16/36 = 3 29/36