Problem 28 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Perform the indicated subtraction. $$\frac{4}{9}-\frac{7}{9}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The result of the subtraction is \( -\frac{1}{3}\)

Step 1: Identify the fractions for subtraction

The given fractions for the subtraction operation are \( \frac{4}{9} \) and \( \frac{7}{9} \).

Step 2: Subtract the fractions

Since the denominators of the fractions are the same, simply subtract the numerators. The denominator remains the same. This gives \( \frac{4-7}{9} \).

Step 3: Simplify the fraction

This results in \( \frac{-3}{9} \).

Step 4: Reduce the fraction to its simplest form

When simplified, our answer is \( -\frac{1}{3} \).