Solve the following equation:
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Solve the following equation:
Let's first identify the lowest common denominator between 2 and 8.
In order to determine the lowest common denominator, we need to first find a number that is divisible by both 2 and 8.
In this case, the common denominator is 8.
We'll then proceed to multiply each fraction by the appropriate number in order to reach the denominator 8.
We'll multiply the first fraction by 4
We'll multiply the second fraction by 1
Finally we'll combine and obtain the following:
\( \frac{2}{4}+\frac{1}{4}= \)\( \)
You can't add fractions with different denominators because they represent different-sized pieces! It's like trying to add apples and oranges. You must convert them to the same denominator first.
Since 8 is already a multiple of 2 (2 × 4 = 8), the LCD is simply 8. The LCD is the smallest number that both denominators divide into evenly.
You could use 16! You'd get , which simplifies to . However, using the LCD saves work and keeps numbers smaller.
is already in simplest form because 7 and 8 share no common factors other than 1. Always check if your final answer can be simplified!
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