Solve Fraction Addition: 1/2 + 2/7 Step-by-Step

Fraction Addition with Unlike Denominators

Solve the following exercise:

12+27=? \frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{7}=\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 First, multiply each fraction by the other fraction's denominator. This helps us find a common denominator.
00:17 Now, remember to multiply both the numerator and the denominator. Nice job!
00:32 Next, calculate those multiplications. You're doing great!
00:39 Then, we add the numerators together using the common denominator. Keep going!
00:45 Go ahead and calculate the numerator.
00:48 And that's how we find the solution. Great work!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Solve the following exercise:

12+27=? \frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{7}=\text{?}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the given problem of adding two fractions 12 \frac{1}{2} and 27 \frac{2}{7} , follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Determine the common denominator.

The denominators of the fractions are 22 and 77. Multiply these two numbers to find the common denominator: 2×7=142 \times 7 = 14.

  • Step 2: Adjust each fraction to have the common denominator.

Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 1414:
12=1×72×7=714 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 7}{2 \times 7} = \frac{7}{14}

Convert 27 \frac{2}{7} to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 1414:
27=2×27×2=414 \frac{2}{7} = \frac{2 \times 2}{7 \times 2} = \frac{4}{14}

  • Step 3: Add the adjusted fractions.

Now that both fractions have a common denominator, add them:
714+414=7+414=1114 \frac{7}{14} + \frac{4}{14} = \frac{7 + 4}{14} = \frac{11}{14}

We have successfully added the fractions and obtained the result.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is 1114 \frac{11}{14} .

3

Final Answer

1114 \frac{11}{14}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Find common denominator before adding fractions with different bottoms
  • Technique: Multiply 12 \frac{1}{2} by 7 and 27 \frac{2}{7} by 2 to get fourteenths
  • Check: Verify 714+414=1114 \frac{7}{14} + \frac{4}{14} = \frac{11}{14} cannot be simplified further ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding numerators and denominators separately
    Don't add straight across like 12+27=39 \frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{7} = \frac{3}{9} ! This gives completely wrong results because you're not working with the same sized pieces. Always find a common denominator first, then add only the numerators.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Complete the following exercise:

\( \frac{3}{4}:\frac{5}{6}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

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

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Because fractions represent parts of different sized wholes! Adding 12 \frac{1}{2} and 27 \frac{2}{7} is like adding half a pizza to two-sevenths of a different pizza - you need equal pieces first.

How do I find the common denominator?

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Look for the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of the denominators. For 2 and 7, since they share no common factors, multiply them: 2×7=14 2 \times 7 = 14 .

Do I always multiply the denominators together?

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Not always! Only when the denominators have no common factors. For 14+16 \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{6} , the LCD is 12, not 24, because 4 and 6 share common factors.

What if my answer looks too big or complicated?

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Always check if your answer can be simplified! Look for common factors in the numerator and denominator. In this case, 1114 \frac{11}{14} is already in lowest terms.

Can I convert to decimals instead?

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You could, but fractions are often more exact! Converting 12=0.5 \frac{1}{2} = 0.5 and 270.286 \frac{2}{7} ≈ 0.286 gives approximations, while 1114 \frac{11}{14} is the precise answer.

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