What is 2/3 minus 3/4?
2/3 minus 3/4 equals -1/12 (or -0.083333 in decimal form). Learn the step-by-step solution to subtract 2/3 and 3/4 using Least Common Denominator and simplification.
Exact Answer
2/3 − 3/4 = -1/12
Simplified Fraction
-1/12
Mixed Number
Proper (-1/12)
Decimal Value
-0.083333
Percentage
-8.3333%
Step-by-Step Solution: 2/3 − 3/4
Step 1
Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
The denominators 3 and 4 are coprime (they share no common factors other than 1). Therefore, their Least Common Denominator (LCD) is simply their direct product: 3 × 4 = 12.
LCD(3, 4) = 12
Step 2
Convert to Equivalent Fractions with Common Denominator 12
Multiply the numerator and denominator of 2/3 by 4, and multiply the numerator and denominator of 3/4 by 3 so both fractions share the common base 12.
2 × 4/3 × 4 = 8/12 and 3 × 3/4 × 3 = 9/12
Step 3
Subtract the Numerators
Now subtract the numerators (8 − 9 = -1) and keep the common denominator 12 unchanged.
8 − 9/12 = -1/12
Step 4
Check if the Fraction Can Be Simplified
The Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) of 1 and 12 is 1, confirming that -1/12 cannot be reduced further—it is already in its simplest irreducible form.
-1/12
Step 5
Decimal & Percentage Representation
Dividing the numerator -1 by denominator 12 produces a repeating decimal (approximately -0.083333, or -8.3333%).
-1 ÷ 12 = -0.083333 (-8.3333%)
Visual Representation
The diagram below illustrates 2/3 minus 3/4 visually:
−
=
Summary & Alternative Representations
| Property / Format | Value |
|---|---|
| Lowest Terms Fraction | -1/12 |
| Mixed Number Form | -1/12 |
| Decimal Form | -0.083333 |
| Percentage | -8.3333% |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is 2/3 minus 3/4 as a fraction?
2/3 − 3/4 in simplest fraction form is -1/12.
What is 2/3 minus 3/4 as a decimal?
2/3 − 3/4 converted to a decimal is -0.083333.
What is 2/3 minus 3/4 as a percentage?
2/3 − 3/4 expressed as a percentage is -8.3333%.
Does 2/3 minus 3/4 result in a terminating or repeating decimal?
It results in a repeating decimal (approximately -0.083333...) because the denominator contains prime factors other than 2 and 5.