Subtract 81/72 from 1/2
1st number: 1/2, 2nd number: 1 9/72
1/2 - 81/72 is -5/8.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 2 and 72 is 72
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 72 - For the 1st fraction, since 2 × 36 = 72,
1/2 = 1 × 36/2 × 36 = 36/72 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 72 × 1 = 72,
81/72 = 81 × 1/72 × 1 = 81/72 - Subtract the two like fractions:
36/72 - 81/72 = 36 - 81/72 = -45/72 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -5/8
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 1/4-81/72 3/2-81/72 1/6-81/72 5/2-81/72 1/10-81/72 7/2-81/72 1/14-81/72