Solve the following equation:
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Solve the following equation:
We must first identify the lowest common denominator between 3 and 6.
In order to determine the lowest common denominator, we need to find a number that is divisible by both 3 and 6.
In this case, the common denominator is 6.
We'll then proceed to multiply each fraction by the appropriate number to reach the denominator 6.
We'll multiply the first fraction by 2
We'll multiply the second fraction by 1
Finally we'll combine and obtain the following:
\( \frac{2}{4}+\frac{1}{4}= \)\( \)
You can only add fractions when they have the same denominator! Think of it like adding apples and oranges - you need to convert them to the same "unit" first. Here, convert both to sixths: .
List the multiples of each number: 3 (3, 6, 9, 12...) and 6 (6, 12, 18...). The smallest common multiple is 6, so that's your LCD!
You could simplify first, but it's not necessary. The LCD method works with any equivalent fractions, so you can work with directly.
If you use a number that's not divisible by both denominators, you'll get stuck trying to convert the fractions. Always check that your LCD divides evenly into both original denominators.
Yes! You could use 12 instead of 6, giving you . But using the LCD (6) keeps numbers smaller and makes calculations easier.
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