Subtract 84/56 from 40/42
1st number: 40/42, 2nd number: 1 28/56
40/42 - 84/56 is -23/42.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 42 and 56 is 168
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 168 - For the 1st fraction, since 42 × 4 = 168,
40/42 = 40 × 4/42 × 4 = 160/168 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 56 × 3 = 168,
84/56 = 84 × 3/56 × 3 = 252/168 - Subtract the two like fractions:
160/168 - 252/168 = 160 - 252/168 = -92/168 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -23/42
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 80/42-84/56 40/84-84/56