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

\( \frac{2}{4}+\frac{1}{4}= \)\( \)

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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