Subtract 4/72 from 2/40
2/40 - 4/72 is -1/180.
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,
4/72 = 4 × 5/72 × 5 = 20/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
18/360 - 20/360 = 18 - 20/360 = -2/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -1/180
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