Need help on algebra problem

[RoK]

This is a fractional equation problem, it says: What number must be subtracted from the numerator and denominator of 29/31 to produce a fraction equivalent to 11/12.
I'm not sure on how to set this type of problem up. I tried reading my book and looking online for help but couldn't find anything for something like this. I'm probably thinking too hard and it's probably simpler than I'm thinking. If anyone can help, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks.

 

[Andos99]

LOL...took me all over 3 seconds to figure out. The answer is 7.

 

[RoK]

But I want to know how to set up the problem in an equation? lol

 

[Devilishturtles]

I don't know if there is a shortcut or not, but you can just show you have subtracted a number each time, then do the math.

Keep going until you reach .91, or the equivalent of 11/12.

 

[deli_conker]

LOL...took me all over 3 seconds to figure out.

Ummm. Yeah, that was hilarious (and incorrect).

Both fractions have to share a common denominator (preferably the smallest). You do this by multiplying the denominators together and then the numerator by the other fractions denominator...

It will be easier to just show you the answer. Remember that a fraction that has the same numerator and denominator is 1.

So 11/12 * 31/31 = 341/372 -----> (11*31=341, 12*31=372)
And 29/31 * 12/12 = 348/372 ------>(29*12=348,31*12=372)

Basically, you multiply the top and bottom of one fraction by the bottom of the other fraction. Do this for both and then they will have the smallest common denominator. In this case, 372.

So 29/31 - 7/372 = 348/372 - 7/372 = 341/372 = 11/12

The answer that you were looking for is 7/372.

 

[Andos99]

That was what I meant.....7/372

 

[QTOFFER]

I am so glad I don't have to suffer through high school/college mathematics any more!
As far as I'm concerned, algebra is what a mermaid wears!

 

[Lonewolfblue]

I am so glad I don't have to suffer through high school/college mathematics any more!
As far as I'm concerned, algebra is what a mermaid wears!

hehehe.....

 

[Zagz]

I agree 100% QTOFFER! I am no good with algebra.