Question

What is `2 1/2 - 9/16`?

Answer 1

`31/16`

Explanation:

To convert a mixed number like `2 1/2` into a fraction, multiply the outside number by the bottom number and add it to the top.

`2 1/2 = (2 * 2 + 1)/2 = 5/2`

Now convert the fraction `5/2` so the bottom number is `16`, through multiplying by 8/8.

`5/2 * 8/8 = 40/16`

Now substitute into the original equation, so

`40/16 - 9/16 = 31/16`