What is 2/5 - 3/7?
Calculate 2/5 - 3/7 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to subtract fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
2/5 - 3/7 = \frac{-1}{35}
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}{7} = ?
Step 2
Find the Common Denominator
The denominators are different (5 and 7), so we need a common denominator.
The Least Common Denominator (LCD) of 5 and 7 is 35.
\text{LCD}(5, 7) = 35
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 7
\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2 \times 7}{5 \times 7} = \frac{14}{35}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply top and bottom by 5
\frac{3}{7} = \frac{3 \times 5}{7 \times 5} = \frac{15}{35}
Step 5
Subtract the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator.
\frac{14}{35} - \frac{15}{35} = \frac{14 - 15}{35} = \frac{-1}{35}
Step 6
Final Answer
The result is -1/35
As a decimal: -0.028571
\frac{2}{5} - \frac{3}{7} = \frac{-1}{35}