Subtract 42/72 from 2/40
2/40 - 42/72 is -8/15.
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,
42/72 = 42 × 5/72 × 5 = 210/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
18/360 - 210/360 = 18 - 210/360 = -192/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -8/15
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 4/40-42/72 2/40-84/72 2/80-42/72 6/40-42/72 10/40-42/72 14/40-42/72