What is 1/2 - 1/4?
Calculate 1/2 - 1/4 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
1/2 - 1/4 = \frac{1}{4}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{4} = ?
Step 2
Find the Common Denominator
The denominators are different (2 and 4), so we need a common denominator.
The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 2 and 4 is 4.
\text{LCD}(2, 4) = 4
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 2
\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 2}{2 \times 2} = \frac{2}{4}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 1
\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 1}{4 \times 1} = \frac{1}{4}
Step 5
Subtract the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator.
\frac{2}{4} - \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2 - 1}{4} = \frac{1}{4}
Step 6
Final Answer
The result is 1/4
As a decimal: 0.25
\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{4}