Subtract 16/72 from 2/40
2/40 - 16/72 is -31/180.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- 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 - For the 1st fraction, since 40 × 9 = 360,
2/40 = 2 × 9/40 × 9 = 18/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
16/72 = 16 × 5/72 × 5 = 80/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
18/360 - 80/360 = 18 - 80/360 = -62/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -31/180
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