Question

subtract.
\\(\frac{1}{2} - \frac{5}{8}\\)
write your answer in simplest form.

Explanation:

Step1: Find a common denominator

The denominators are 2 and 8. The least common denominator is 8. Rewrite $\frac{1}{2}$ with denominator 8: $\frac{1}{2}=\frac{1\times4}{2\times4}=\frac{4}{8}$

Step2: Subtract the fractions

Now subtract $\frac{4}{8}-\frac{5}{8}=\frac{4 - 5}{8}=\frac{-1}{8}$

Answer:

$\frac{-1}{8}$