Problem 76 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Perform the indicated operation. Where possible, reduce the answer to its lowest terms. $$\frac{17}{5}-\frac{2}{5}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The answer is 3.

Step 1: Identify The Fractions

The fractions are \( \frac{17}{5} \) and \( \frac{2}{5} \). Here, both fractions have the same denominator which is 5.

Step 2: Subtract The Fractions

Since the denominators are the same, the fractions can be subtracted by simply subtracting the numerators. Result is \( \frac{17-2}{5} = \frac{15}{5} \).

Step 3: Reduce Fraction To Lowest Terms

The fraction \( \frac{15}{5} \) can be reduced to its lowest terms by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor which is 5. Hence, \( \frac{15}{5} = \frac{15 \div 5}{5 \div 5} = 3 \).