Subtract 15/50 from 3/72
3/72 - 15/50 is -31/120.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 50 is 1800
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 1800 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 25 = 1800,
3/72 = 3 × 25/72 × 25 = 75/1800 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 50 × 36 = 1800,
15/50 = 15 × 36/50 × 36 = 540/1800 - Subtract the two like fractions:
75/1800 - 540/1800 = 75 - 540/1800 = -465/1800 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -31/120
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 6/72-15/50 3/72-30/50 9/72-15/50 3/72-45/50 15/72-15/50 3/72-75/50 21/72-15/50