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Subtract 5/40 from 2/32

2/32 - 5/40 is -1/16.

Steps for subtracting fractions

  1. Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
    LCM of 32 and 40 is 160

    Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 160
  2. For the 1st fraction, since 32 × 5 = 160,
    2/32 = 2 × 5/32 × 5 = 10/160
  3. Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 40 × 4 = 160,
    5/40 = 5 × 4/40 × 4 = 20/160
  4. Subtract the two like fractions:
    10/160 - 20/160 = 10 - 20/160 = -10/160
  5. After reducing the fraction, the answer is -1/16

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