I need the steps to solve 2 1/2 + (-3 1/4)= -3/4 please show step by step

Question

I am just rying to study by going over problems that have the answer in the back of my book. This one has me stuck. ny help now will be greatly appreciated. By the way, I am taking my 2nd develomental math course at a community college. Myy book is introductory and ntermediate algebra.

thank you very much, angie

Answer 1

 

2 1/2 + (-3 1/4)= -3/4
2 (1/2) = 1
-3 (1/4) = -3/4
1 + -3/4 = 1/4
1/4 does not equal -3/4.  this answer is undefined

If they are mixed numbers: 
2 1/2 = outside number time denominator plus numerator =  
2 x 2 + 1 = new numerator
so 2 1/2 = 5/2

-3 1/4 = 4 * -3  + 1 = new numerator
so -3 1/4 = -11/4

5/2 - 11/4 = -3/4

10/4 - 11/4 = -3/4
-1/4 = -3/4  This is false so the answer is undefined.