Subtracting Fractions

Fraction is one of the most important topics in mathematics taught in middle school. When a number is divided into two parts, each part is called as a fraction. For example: 89/100 of parents said good things about construction toys . Here, 89 is the numerator and 100 is the denominator. We can perform all four basic mathematical operations with fractions. Let’s have a look at the concept of subtracting fractions. Subtracting fractions varies based on its denominators. The concept of subtracting fractions with same and different denominators is elaborated with relevant examples in the below :
Subtracting Fractions with Same Denominators:
While subtracting fractions with same denominators, first the denominators should be taken as common denominators and then the numerators should be subtracted. If the result is a greater value, it can be further reduced.
1. Example: The shop keeper wanted to sell at least 5/7 of construction toys but Kiran bought only 3/7? How many toys remaining?
5/7 – 3/7
(5-3)/7
2/7
2. Example: 78/100 parents voted for soft baby toys and 20/100 parents voted for electronic toys for kids. What is the difference?
78/100 – 20/100
(78-20)/100
58/100
29/50
Subtracting Fractions with Different Denominators:
While subtracting fractions with different denominators, first the LCM that is the lowest common multiple of the denominators is calculated and then the numerators are subtracted. If the result is a greater value, it can be further reduced.
3. Example:  Mahesh bought 4/3 parts of electronic toys for kids and Hari bought 2/4 of the soft baby toys collection. What is the difference?
4/3 – 2/4
Finding LCM, [(4*3) – (2*4)] / 12
(12 – 8)/12
4/12
1/3
4. Example: He has 55/60 part of the property and Niketan has 40/55. Find the difference:
55/60 – 40/55
Finding LCM, [(55*11) – (40*12)]/132
125/132
These are some of the basics on subtracting fractions along with solved examples for better insights.