To solve the expression [tex]\(-\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex], follow these steps:
1. Identify the fraction: The fraction given is [tex]\(\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex], which represents one part out of two equal parts of a whole.
2. Apply the negative sign: The negative sign in front of [tex]\(\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex] indicates that the value is less than zero. When you apply the negative sign to the fraction, it becomes:
[tex]\[
-\frac{1}{2}
\][/tex]
3. Simplify the fraction: Converting the fraction to a decimal will help to understand its value more clearly. The fraction [tex]\(\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex] is equivalent to the decimal [tex]\(0.5\)[/tex].
4. Incorporate the negative sign: Adding the negative sign to the decimal gives:
[tex]\[
-0.5
\][/tex]
Therefore, the expression [tex]\(-\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex] simplifies to [tex]\(-0.5\)[/tex].
