Subtract 36/40 from 16/72
16/72 - 36/40 is -61/90.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 40 is 360
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
16/72 = 16 × 5/72 × 5 = 80/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 40 × 9 = 360,
36/40 = 36 × 9/40 × 9 = 324/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
80/360 - 324/360 = 80 - 324/360 = -244/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -61/90
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 32/72-36/40 16/72-72/40 16/72-36/80 48/72-36/40 80/72-36/40