Subtract 16/42 from 2/12
2/12 - 16/42 is -3/14.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 12 and 42 is 84
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 84 - For the 1st fraction, since 12 × 7 = 84,
2/12 = 2 × 7/12 × 7 = 14/84 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 42 × 2 = 84,
16/42 = 16 × 2/42 × 2 = 32/84 - Subtract the two like fractions:
14/84 - 32/84 = 14 - 32/84 = -18/84 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -3/14
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