Subtract 50/42 from 30/72
1st number: 30/72, 2nd number: 1 8/42
30/72 - 50/42 is -65/84.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 42 is 504
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 504 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 7 = 504,
30/72 = 30 × 7/72 × 7 = 210/504 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 42 × 12 = 504,
50/42 = 50 × 12/42 × 12 = 600/504 - Subtract the two like fractions:
210/504 - 600/504 = 210 - 600/504 = -390/504 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -65/84
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 60/72-50/42 30/72-50/84 90/72-50/42