Subtract 12/42 from 2/5
2/5 - 12/42 is 4/35.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 5 and 42 is 210
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 210 - For the 1st fraction, since 5 × 42 = 210,
2/5 = 2 × 42/5 × 42 = 84/210 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 42 × 5 = 210,
12/42 = 12 × 5/42 × 5 = 60/210 - Subtract the two like fractions:
84/210 - 60/210 = 84 - 60/210 = 24/210 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is 4/35
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