Objective

To subtract a smaller fraction from a greater fraction with the same denominator.

Prerequisite

• Concept of subtraction of natural numbers.
• Concept of fractions.

What is a fraction?

A fraction is a numerical value that represents the parts of the whole.

Parts of a fraction

A fraction consists of two parts, namely the numerator and the denominator. The upper part of the fraction is called the numerator, and the lower part of the fraction is called the denominator. For example, 4/7 is a fraction. Here, 4 is the numerator and 7 is the denominator.

Like fractions

Fractions with the same denominators are called like fractions. Thus, 1/15, 2/15, 3/15, and 8/15 are all like fractions.

Subtraction of like fractions

Subtraction of like fractions means subtracting fractions with the same denominator values.
Follow the below steps to subtract the like fractions.
Step 1: Keep the denominator values as they are and subtract the numerator value of the smaller fraction from the numerator value of the larger fraction.
Step 2: If required, simplify the fraction.
Example 1: Subtract 2/7 from 4/7.
Solution:
Given: (4/7) - (2/7) Here, the denominator values are the same, so keep the value as it is.
Now, subtract the numerator values.
(4/7) - (2/7) = (4-2)/7
(4/7) - (2/7) = 2/7
Answer = 2/7.