Subtract 45/60 from 42/72
42/72 - 45/60 is -1/6.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 60 is 360
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
42/72 = 42 × 5/72 × 5 = 210/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 60 × 6 = 360,
45/60 = 45 × 6/60 × 6 = 270/360 - Subtract the two like fractions:
210/360 - 270/360 = 210 - 270/360 = -60/360 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -1/6
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 84/72-45/60 42/72-90/60