Subtract 32/72 from 2/40
2/40 - 32/72 is -71/180.
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,
32/72 = 32 × 5/72 × 5 = 160/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
18/360 - 160/360 = 18 - 160/360 = -142/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -71/180
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 4/40-32/72 2/40-64/72 2/80-32/72 6/40-32/72 2/40-96/72 10/40-32/72 14/40-32/72