2 1/2 + 3 5/8 - 1 5/6 = ?
First let's convert all the mixed numbers to improper fractions.
5/2 + 29/8 - 11/6
Now find the common denominator.
We have 2, 8, and 6. We can disregard 2 because it is a factor of both 8 and 6 so any common denominator for 8 and 6 will work for 2.
Multiples of 8: 8, 16, 24
Multiples of 6: 6, 12, 18, 24
Now rewrite each fraction with a denominator of 24.
60/24 + 87/24 -44/24
(60+87-44)/24
Answer: 103/24 pounds