Subtract 20/9 from 2/42, Solve 2/42

Subtract 20/9 from 2/42

1^st number: 2/42, 2^nd number: 2 2/9

2/42 - 20/9 is -137/63.

Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 42 and 9 is 126

Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 126
For the 1st fraction, since 42 × 3 = 126,
2/42 = 2 × 3/42 × 3 = 6/126
Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 9 × 14 = 126,
20/9 = 20 × 14/9 × 14 = 280/126
Subtract the two like fractions:
6/126 - 280/126 = 6 - 280/126 = -274/126
After reducing the fraction, the answer is -137/63

MathStep (Works offline)

Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad