Subtracting FractionsSubtracting fractions works on more or less the same principles as adding fractions. Here we will discuss the rules associated with subtraction of a fraction from another. As you might have observed in the section dedicated to addition of fraction numbers here also we will divide the topic into three parts. Each of these individual parts will deal with steps that are required for solving the problems. Subtracting Fractions with like denominator Simplest of the lot are problems wherein you have fractions with same denominator. Operating on such number is always easier. So here are the steps that you need to take in order to arrive at the solution. We are assuming that you have a problem where in you wish to subtract one fraction from another and both the fractions have the same denominator. Step #1 Place the common denominator of the two fractions as the denominator of the result. Step #2 Now subtract the numerator of the second number from that of the first. The resultant number is the numerator of the result. Create the fraction with this as the numerator and the common denominator identified earlier. Step #3 Reduce the fraction to its simplest form. This step might not be needed if the resultant fraction is already in its simplest form. Subtracting Fractions with unlike denominator When you have to subtract a fraction from another and both of them have different denominator the first thing that you should do is convert each of them into equivalent fractions with a common denominator. This is explained in detail below Step #1 Take the two denominators of the given fractions and find their LCM Step #2 Now let us concentrate on the first fraction. Divide the LCM obtained in the previous step with the denominator of the first number. Multiply the quotient with the existing numerator of the fraction. This number is the numerator of the equivalent fraction. LCM obtained in step #1 is the denominator of the equivalent fraction. Step #3 Follow the process mentioned in Step #2 for the second fraction as well. At the end of this stage you should have the equivalent fractions of the two original numbers. Step #4 Now you have to subtract a fraction from another where in the denominator is same for both. Follow the three steps essential for carrying out fraction subtraction where the denominators are same. Subtracting Mixed Fractions While dealing with subtraction of mixed fractions the first step is to convert them into the regular fraction form. After that depending upon the denominator you may choose one of the methods enlisted above. Hope you found these step by step procedures for subtracting one fraction from another helpful. For solved example on each of the part you may visit their specific pages where you will find solved steps for an example problem.
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