MHB How to Simplify Fractions with Brackets

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on simplifying the expression 19/20 - (1/2 - 3/10) using the order of operations known as PEDMAS. The first step involves simplifying the expression within the brackets by finding a common denominator, which is 10, leading to the calculation of 1/2 * 5/5 - 3/10 = 5/10 - 3/10. Additionally, a more advanced approach suggests considering the common denominator of all three fractions, which is 20, for further simplification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the order of operations (PEDMAS)
  • Knowledge of finding common denominators in fractions
  • Ability to perform basic fraction subtraction
  • Familiarity with simplifying expressions involving fractions
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  • Learn advanced techniques for finding common denominators in complex fractions
  • Study the application of PEDMAS in multi-step mathematical expressions
  • Explore methods for simplifying algebraic fractions
  • Practice solving similar fraction problems with varying denominators
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how do I work out this problem?19/20-(1/2-3/10)
 
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unknown said:
how do I work out this problem?19/20-(1/2-3/10)
With PEDMAS (or any of it's twins) you always start with what's inside the brackets. In this case
[math]\frac{1}{2} - \frac{3}{10}[/math]

Get a common denominator. In this case it is 10. So we have
[math]\frac{1}{2} \cdot \frac{5}{5} - \frac{3}{10} = \frac{5}{10} - \frac{3}{10}[/math]

Can you finish from here?

(As a slightly more advanced tip you might want to think about the common denominator of all three fractions. That would be 20.)

-Dan
 

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