Question

how can we simplify 1/3 - 5/12​

Answer 1

Answer:

Add 1/3 and 5/12

1

3

+

5

12

is

3

4

.

Steps for adding fractions

Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:

LCM of 3 and 12 is 12

Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 12

For the 1st fraction, since 3 × 4 = 12,

1

3

=

1 × 4

3 × 4

=

4

12

Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 12 × 1 = 12,

5

12

=

5 × 1

12 × 1

=

5

12

Add the two like fractions:

4

12

+

5

12

=

4 + 5

12

=

9

12

9/12 simplified gives

3

4

So, 1/3 + 5/12 = 3/4

Answer 2

Step by step explanation

= (1/3)-(5/12)
= LCM of 3 and 12=12
= (1*4/3*4) - (5*1/12*1)
= 4/12 - 5/12
= 4-5/12
= -1/12