Solve the following exercise:
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
Solve the following exercise:
To solve the problem of adding and , follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the least common denominator of the fractions.
The denominators of the fractions are 4 and 6. The least common multiple of 4 and 6 is 12, so 12 is our common denominator.
Step 2: Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the denominator of 12.
For : Multiply both numerator and denominator by 3 to obtain . This is because .
For : Multiply both numerator and denominator by 2 to obtain . This is because .
Step 3: Add the converted fractions.
Step 4: Simplify the final fraction if possible.
In this case, can be simplified by dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 4. Thus, simplifies to .
However, as per the problem's required answer, the unsimplified fraction is .
Therefore, the solution to the problem is:
Complete the following exercise:
\( \frac{3}{4}:\frac{5}{6}=\text{?} \)
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. means 2 pieces out of 4, while means 1 piece out of 6 - completely different sized pieces!
List the multiples of each number: 4: 4, 8, 12, 16... and 6: 6, 12, 18... The smallest number that appears in both lists is 12, so that's your LCD!
Ask yourself: "What do I multiply the denominator by to get the LCD?" For : 4 × 3 = 12, so multiply top and bottom by 3. For : 6 × 2 = 12, so multiply top and bottom by 2.
It depends on what the problem asks for! In this case, the answer choices show , so that's what they want. But remember that when simplified.
The same process works! Just take your time finding the least common multiple. You can also use prime factorization to make it easier - break each number into prime factors, then use each factor the maximum number of times it appears.
Get unlimited access to all 18 Operations with Fractions questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime