If you subtract 1/2 from a number and multiply the result by 1/2 , you get 1/8. What is the number?

The problem is an application of linear equations in one variable and the addition of fractions.

Answer: The number is 3/4.

Let's understand the sequence of operations.

Explanation:

Let the required number be x.

Given that, If we subtract 1/2 from x and multiply the result by 1/2 we get 1/8.

⇒ (x - 1/2) × (1/2) = 1/8

⇒ x - 1/2 = 1/8 × (2/1)

⇒ x - 1/2 = 2/8

⇒ x - 1/2 = 1/4

⇒ x  = (1/2) + (1/4)

⇒ x = (2+1)/4

⇒ x = 3/4

Thus, the required number is 3/4.