Add or subtract, write your answer as a fraction

Question

-1/2+1/4-3/8

Answer 1

Step 1: Find a common denominator

It's best to find the Lowest Common Denominator. To do so, look at the largest denominator. Ask yourself, "Is this the common denominator?". If it is, the other denominators will divide into it evenly. If it is not the common denominator, then double it and ask again, "Is this the common denominator?". If not, then multiply the original by 3 and ask again. Repeat until you find it.

In this case, the largest denominator is 8 and that is the lowest common denominator because 8 is divisible by both 2 and 4.

Step 2: Transform all fractions so they have the lowest common denominator that you found in Step 1

To do that, find the number that you can multiply the denominator by to get the lowest common denominator and then multiply both numerator and denominator by that number.

In this case, for (-1/2) we need to multiply 2 by 4 to get the lowest common denominator (8) so multiply (-1/2) by (4/4): (-1/2)•(4/4) = (-4/8).

For (1/4), we need to multiply 4 by 2 to get the lowest common denominator (8) so multiply (1/4) by (2/2): (1/4)•(2/2) = (2/8).

For (3/8), we do not need to transform it since the denominator is already 8.

The problem now, after transforming the fractions is: (-4/8) + (2/8) - (3/8)

Step 3: Combine the numerators and keep the denominator:

(-4 + 2 - 3)/8

(-5/8)

Step 4: Reduce the fraction if necessary

In this case, (-5/8) does not require reducing.

Answer 2

To solve -1/2 + 1/4 - 3/8, we need a common denominator. The least common denominator of 2, 4, and 8 is 8.

Rewriting each fraction with a denominator of 8:

1. -1/2 = -4/8
2. 1/4 = 2/8
3. -3/8 stays the same

Now, add them together:

-4/8 + 2/8 - 3/8 = -5/8

Final answer: -5/8 ✅

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Answer 3

Hello,

I have solved the problem in this video. Check it out when you get a moment and let me know if you have any additional questions. I hope this helps. If you have any additional problems, please let me know.

Take care!

Dr. Christal-Joy Turner

Answer 4

Use simple arithmetic to solve the expression: -1/2 + 1/4 -3/8

Find a common denominator and perform the mathematic operations.

Step 1

Find the least common denominator (LCD)

The denominators are 2,4, and 8

The LCD is 8.

Step 2

Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD

-1/2 =1/2 x 4/4 = -4/8 (substitute the negative sign)

+1/4 = 1/4 x 2/2 = 2/8 (substitute the positive sign)

-3/8 = -3/8 Remain the same or 8 goes in 8 (1 time and multiply by -3 ) = -3/8

Step 3

Perform the mathematical operations of expression:

Combine like terms: -4/8 + -3/8 = -7/8

Step 4

Solve the final operation:

-7/8 + 2/8 = -5/8

Solution of the expression is -5/8

I hope the mathematical calculations (step by step approach) was helpful. Please let me know if you require any more assistance. If anyone in my neighborhood is interested in setting up an in-person math tutoring session. I look forward to hearing from them. Have an amazing day. Doris H.