math help

What is 2/12 - 8/12?

What is 2/12 - 8/12?

Here's how to subtract 8/12 from 2/12:

2
12
8
12

Step 1

Since our denominators match, we can subtract the numerators.

2 − 8 = -6

So the answer is:

-6
12

Step 2

Last of all, we need to simplify the fraction, if possible. Can it be reduced to a simpler fraction?

To find out, we try dividing it by 2...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

-6
12
÷ 2 =
-3
6

Let's try dividing by 2 again...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 3...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 3? Yes! So we reduce it:

-3
6
÷ 3 =
-1
2

Let's try dividing by 3 again...

No good. 3 is larger than -1. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! The final answer is:
2
12
8
12
=
1
2