Subtract 21/45 from 5/12
5/12 - 21/45 is -1/20.
Steps for subtracting fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 12 and 45 is 180
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 180 - For the 1st fraction, since 12 × 15 = 180,
5/12 = 5 × 15/12 × 15 = 75/180 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 45 × 4 = 180,
21/45 = 21 × 4/45 × 4 = 84/180 - Subtract the two like fractions:
75/180 - 84/180 = 75 - 84/180 = -9/180 - After reducing the fraction, the answer is -1/20
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