Question

5\frac{1}{2}-7

Explanation:

Step1: Convert mixed - number to improper fraction

$5\frac{1}{2}=\frac{5\times2 + 1}{2}=\frac{10 + 1}{2}=\frac{11}{2}$

Step2: Rewrite subtraction as addition of opposite

$\frac{11}{2}-7=\frac{11}{2}+(-7)$

Step3: Make common denominator

$-7=\frac{-7\times2}{2}=\frac{-14}{2}$

Step4: Add fractions

$\frac{11}{2}+\frac{-14}{2}=\frac{11+( - 14)}{2}=\frac{11 - 14}{2}=\frac{-3}{2}=-1\frac{1}{2}$

Answer:

$-1\frac{1}{2}$