Question

subtract.
\\(\frac{1}{2} - \frac{5}{12} = \\)
use the model to help you.
\\(\frac{1}{2}\\)
\\(-\\)
\\(\frac{1}{12}\\) \\(\frac{1}{12}\\) \\(\frac{1}{12}\\) \\(\frac{1}{12}\\) \\(\frac{1}{12}\\)

Explanation:

Step1: Convert to common denominator

To subtract \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(\frac{5}{12}\), find a common denominator. The least common denominator of 2 and 12 is 12. Convert \(\frac{1}{2}\) to twelfths: \(\frac{1}{2}=\frac{1\times6}{2\times6}=\frac{6}{12}\)

Step2: Subtract the fractions

Now subtract \(\frac{5}{12}\) from \(\frac{6}{12}\): \(\frac{6}{12}-\frac{5}{12}=\frac{6 - 5}{12}=\frac{1}{12}\)

Answer:

\(\frac{1}{12}\)