What is 5 7/8 - 2 1/2?

Answers (2)

This is a difficult question, but this is what I think.
If 5 7/8 and 2 1/2 is the same as 5.875 and 2.5. Then the question could be read as 8.875 - 2.5 = 6.375.

I hope this helps.

Votes: +0 / -0

8/8 = 1. So,
(5 * 8) / 8 = 40/8 = 5. And
(2 * 8) / 8 = 16/8 = 2

It's all about a common denominator.
(1 * 4 ) / (2 * 4) = (1 / 2) * (4 / 4) = 4/8.

And finally we add it all up:

40/8 + 7/8 - (16/8 + 4/8) = 47/8 - 20/8 = 27/8 = 3 3/8

or in decimals:
3.375

Votes: +0 / -0

Or, more simply: find a common denominator (preferrably the LCM) of 7/8 and 1/2.
5 7/8 - 2 4/8 = 3 3/8

But as you've asked question, the first variety would offer an opportunity for practice ;)