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Subtract 16/21 from 2/5

2/5 - 16/21 is -38/105.

Steps for subtracting fractions

  1. Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
    LCM of 5 and 21 is 105

    Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 105
  2. For the 1st fraction, since 5 × 21 = 105,
    2/5 = 2 × 21/5 × 21 = 42/105
  3. Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 21 × 5 = 105,
    16/21 = 16 × 5/21 × 5 = 80/105
  4. Subtract the two like fractions:
    42/105 - 80/105 = 42 - 80/105 = -38/105

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