Subtract 42/36 from 2/5
1st number: 2/5, 2nd number: 1 6/36
2/5 - 42/36 is -23/30.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 5 and 36 is 180
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 180 - For the 1st fraction, since 5 × 36 = 180,
2/5 = 2 × 36/5 × 36 = 72/180 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 36 × 5 = 180,
42/36 = 42 × 5/36 × 5 = 210/180 - Subtract the two like fractions:
72/180 - 210/180 = 72 - 210/180 = -138/180 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -23/30
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