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Subtract 16/72 from 2/40

2/40 - 16/72 is -31/180.

Steps for subtracting fractions

  1. Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
    LCM of 40 and 72 is 360

    Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360
  2. For the 1st fraction, since 40 × 9 = 360,
    2/40 = 2 × 9/40 × 9 = 18/360
  3. Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
    16/72 = 16 × 5/72 × 5 = 80/360
  4. Subtract the two like fractions:
    18/360 - 80/360 = 18 - 80/360 = -62/360
  5. After reducing the fraction, the answer is -31/180

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