Adding Fractions with Different Denominators: 1/2 and 2/4

Fraction Addition with Common Denominator Conversion

Solve the following exercise:

12+24=? \frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{4}=\text{?}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:05 Let's solve the problem together.
00:08 We need to find the least common denominator.
00:12 So, we'll multiply both by two, to get a common denominator of four.
00:17 Remember, multiply both the top and bottom parts!
00:21 Now, let's calculate these multiplications.
00:26 Add them together under the common denominator.
00:31 Then, find the sum of the top numbers.
00:35 And that's how we solve this problem!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

12+24=? \frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{4}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the problem of adding the fractions 12 \frac{1}{2} and 24 \frac{2}{4} , we can follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Convert the fraction 12 \frac{1}{2} to have the same denominator as 24 \frac{2}{4} .
  • Step 2: Add the two fractions.
  • Step 3: Simplify the sum, if necessary.

Now, let's execute these steps in detail:
Step 1: Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to a fraction with a denominator of 4. To do this, multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 2. Thus, 12=1×22×2=24 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 2}{2 \times 2} = \frac{2}{4} .
Step 2: Now, add the fractions 24+24 \frac{2}{4} + \frac{2}{4} . Since the denominators are the same, we add the numerators and keep the common denominator: 2+24=44 \frac{2+2}{4} = \frac{4}{4} .
Step 3: Simplify 44 \frac{4}{4} , which equals 1. However, the problem asks for the sum in fraction form, so we present it as 44 \frac{4}{4} .

Therefore, the solution to the given problem is 44 \frac{4}{4} .

3

Final Answer

44 \frac{4}{4}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Convert fractions to same denominator before adding numerators
  • Technique: Multiply 12 \frac{1}{2} by 2/2 to get 24 \frac{2}{4}
  • Check: Verify 24+24=44=1 \frac{2}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{4}{4} = 1 whole ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding numerators and denominators separately
    Don't add 12+24 \frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{4} as 1+22+4=36 \frac{1+2}{2+4} = \frac{3}{6} ! This breaks fraction rules and gives completely wrong results. Always convert to common denominators first, then add only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( \)\( \frac{4}{5}+\frac{1}{5}= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just add the tops and bottoms separately?

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Fractions represent parts of a whole, so you need the same-sized pieces to combine them! Adding 12+24 \frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{4} like 36 \frac{3}{6} is like adding 1 half-pizza slice to 2 quarter-pizza slices incorrectly.

How do I know which denominator to use?

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Use the Least Common Denominator (LCD)! For 2 and 4, since 4 is already a multiple of 2, use 4 as your common denominator. Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to fourths.

Do I always need to simplify my final answer?

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Usually yes, but check what the problem asks for! Here 44=1 \frac{4}{4} = 1 , but since answer choices show 44 \frac{4}{4} , that's the expected format.

What if the fractions already have the same denominator?

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Lucky you! Just add the numerators directly and keep the same denominator. Like 24+24=44 \frac{2}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{4}{4} - no conversion needed!

Is there a faster way to see that 1/2 equals 2/4?

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Yes! Think of it as equivalent fractions. 12 \frac{1}{2} means 1 out of 2 equal parts, and 24 \frac{2}{4} means 2 out of 4 equal parts - both represent half!

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