Subtract 42/72 from 2/20
2/20 - 42/72 is -29/60.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 20 and 72 is 360
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360 - For the 1st fraction, since 20 × 18 = 360,
2/20 = 2 × 18/20 × 18 = 36/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
42/72 = 42 × 5/72 × 5 = 210/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
36/360 - 210/360 = 36 - 210/360 = -174/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -29/60
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 4/20-42/72 2/20-84/72 2/40-42/72 6/20-42/72 2/60-42/72 10/20-42/72 14/20-42/72