Math Problem Statement

the red arrow is -4/4 then the blue arrow is 1/4 how do I subtract -4/4 to get 1/4?

Solution

To subtract 44-\frac{4}{4} from another fraction to arrive at 14\frac{1}{4}, follow these steps:

Step-by-Step Explanation:

  1. Simplify 44-\frac{4}{4}: 44=1-\frac{4}{4} = -1

  2. Set up the subtraction problem: You want to subtract 1-1 from some fraction, let's call it xx, to get 14\frac{1}{4}: x(1)=14x - (-1) = \frac{1}{4}

  3. Simplify the double negative: Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding: x+1=14x + 1 = \frac{1}{4}

  4. Solve for xx: To isolate xx, subtract 1 from both sides: x=141x = \frac{1}{4} - 1

  5. Convert the integer to a fraction: Rewrite 1 as 44\frac{4}{4} so that the fractions have the same denominator: x=1444x = \frac{1}{4} - \frac{4}{4}

  6. Perform the subtraction: Subtract the numerators: x=144=34x = \frac{1 - 4}{4} = \frac{-3}{4}

Final Answer:

The value you must start with before subtracting 44-\frac{4}{4} is 34-\frac{3}{4}. Therefore, subtracting 44-\frac{4}{4} from 34-\frac{3}{4} gives you 14\frac{1}{4}.

Let me know if you'd like further clarification!


Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. How do you subtract fractions with different denominators?
  2. What is the result of subtracting 14\frac{1}{4} from 54\frac{5}{4}?
  3. How do you handle subtraction when both fractions are negative?
  4. What happens if you subtract a fraction from a whole number?
  5. Can you explain why subtracting a negative number results in addition?

Tip: When subtracting fractions, always make sure they have the same denominator to simplify the process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Fractions
Subtraction of Negative Numbers
Simplification

Formulas

a - (-b) = a + b
Fraction subtraction: a/b - c/d = (ad - bc) / bd

Theorems

Double Negative Theorem
Fraction Subtraction

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8