Subtract 56/72 from 4/40
4/40 - 56/72 is -61/90.
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,
4/40 = 4 × 9/40 × 9 = 36/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
56/72 = 56 × 5/72 × 5 = 280/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
36/360 - 280/360 = 36 - 280/360 = -244/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -61/90
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 8/40-56/72 4/80-56/72 12/40-56/72 20/40-56/72 28/40-56/72