Subtract 2/16 from 3/42
3/42 - 2/16 is -3/56.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 42 and 16 is 336
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 336 - For the 1st fraction, since 42 × 8 = 336,
3/42 = 3 × 8/42 × 8 = 24/336 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 16 × 21 = 336,
2/16 = 2 × 21/16 × 21 = 42/336 - Subtract the two like fractions:
24/336 - 42/336 = 24 - 42/336 = -18/336 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -3/56
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