Solve Fraction Addition: 1/2 + 4/6 Step by Step

Fraction Addition with Different Denominators

12+46= \frac{1}{2}+\frac{4}{6}=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:03 Let's start with the solution.
00:06 We want to find the least common denominator. Let's identify it together.
00:11 Next, multiply by 3 to get a common denominator. Are you ready?
00:17 Remember, multiply both the numerator and the denominator. This step is important!
00:22 Now, let's do the calculations. You're doing great!
00:27 Add the fractions under the common denominator.
00:33 Time to calculate the new numerator. Almost there!
00:37 And that's how we find the solution to our question!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

12+46= \frac{1}{2}+\frac{4}{6}=

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve the problem of adding the fractions 12\frac{1}{2} and 46\frac{4}{6}, we start by finding the least common denominator (LCD).

First, we identify the denominators: 2 and 6. The least common multiple of 2 and 6 is 6, which will be our LCD.

Next, we convert each fraction to have the denominator of 6:

  • Convert 12\frac{1}{2} to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 6. Since 23=62 \cdot 3 = 6, multiply the numerator by 3: 1×32×3=36\frac{1 \times 3}{2 \times 3} = \frac{3}{6}.

  • The fraction 46\frac{4}{6} already has the desired common denominator.

Now that the fractions are 36\frac{3}{6} and 46\frac{4}{6}, we can add them:

36+46=3+46=76\frac{3}{6} + \frac{4}{6} = \frac{3+4}{6} = \frac{7}{6}.

The solution to the problem is 76\frac{7}{6}, which matches choice 2.

3

Final Answer

76 \frac{7}{6}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Find least common denominator to add fractions with different denominators
  • Technique: Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to 36 \frac{3}{6} by multiplying by 33 \frac{3}{3}
  • Check: Verify 36+46=76 \frac{3}{6} + \frac{4}{6} = \frac{7}{6} by confirming 3+4=7 ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding numerators and denominators straight across
    Don't add 12+46 \frac{1}{2} + \frac{4}{6} as 58 \frac{5}{8} ! This ignores that fractions need the same denominator to be added. Always find the LCD first and convert both fractions before adding 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 1+4=5 and 2+6=8?

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You can't add fractions by adding across because fractions represent parts of different-sized wholes. 12 \frac{1}{2} means 1 part out of 2, while 46 \frac{4}{6} means 4 parts out of 6. You need the same-sized parts first!

How do I find the least common denominator?

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Look for the smallest number that both denominators divide into evenly. For 2 and 6: since 6 ÷ 2 = 3 (no remainder), the LCD is 6. You can also list multiples: 2, 4, 6, 8... and 6, 12, 18...

What if my answer is an improper fraction?

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That's perfectly fine! 76 \frac{7}{6} is correct as an improper fraction. You could convert it to 116 1\frac{1}{6} , but both forms are mathematically correct.

Do I always need to simplify my final answer?

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It's good practice to check if your answer can be simplified, but 76 \frac{7}{6} is already in lowest terms since 7 and 6 share no common factors other than 1.

What if the denominators are harder numbers like 8 and 12?

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Same process! Find the LCD by listing multiples: 8, 16, 24... and 12, 24, 36... The LCD is 24. Convert each fraction to twenty-fourths, then add the numerators.

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