What is 2/5 - 3/4?
Calculate 2/5 - 3/4 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
2/5 - 3/4 = \frac{-7}{20}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
To subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{2}{5} - \frac{3}{4} = ?
Step 2
Find the Common Denominator
The denominators are different (5 and 4), so we need a common denominator.
The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 5 and 4 is 20.
\text{LCD}(5, 4) = 20
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 4
\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2 \times 4}{5 \times 4} = \frac{8}{20}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 5
\frac{3}{4} = \frac{3 \times 5}{4 \times 5} = \frac{15}{20}
Step 5
Subtract the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator.
\frac{8}{20} - \frac{15}{20} = \frac{8 - 15}{20} = \frac{-7}{20}
Step 6
Final Answer
The result is -7/20
As a decimal: -0.35
\frac{2}{5} - \frac{3}{4} = \frac{-7}{20}