Question

subtract.
\\(\frac{1}{2} - \frac{7}{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 \(\frac{7}{8}\) from \(\frac{4}{8}\): \(\frac{4}{8}-\frac{7}{8}=\frac{4 - 7}{8}=\frac{-3}{8}\)

Answer:

\(-\frac{3}{8}\)