Question

subtract.
\\(\frac{1}{3} - \frac{5}{7}\\)
write your answer in simplest form.

Explanation:

Step1: Find a common denominator

The least common denominator of 3 and 7 is $3\times7 = 21$. Rewrite the fractions with the common denominator:
$\frac{1}{3}=\frac{1\times7}{3\times7}=\frac{7}{21}$
$\frac{5}{7}=\frac{5\times3}{7\times3}=\frac{15}{21}$

Step2: Subtract the fractions

Now subtract the numerators:
$\frac{7}{21}-\frac{15}{21}=\frac{7 - 15}{21}=\frac{-8}{21}$

Answer:

$\frac{-8}{21}$