Solve the Fraction Equation: Finding the Missing Addend in 1/6 + ? = 1/2

Fraction Addition with Missing Addends

16+?=12 \frac{1}{6}+?=\frac{1}{2}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:05 Let's find the unknown value together.
00:08 First, arrange the equation and isolate the unknown. This helps us focus on what we're solving for.
00:15 Next, we need to find the least common denominator.
00:19 Multiply by three to get a common denominator. This makes calculations easier.
00:24 And remember, multiply both the numerator and the denominator by three.
00:29 Now, let's calculate those products.
00:32 Add all the results under the common denominator.
00:36 Great! Now calculate the numerator by adding it all up.
00:40 Let's reduce the fraction as much as possible.
00:45 Make sure to divide both the numerator and the denominator.
00:49 And there you have it! That's the solution to the problem.

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

16+?=12 \frac{1}{6}+?=\frac{1}{2}

2

Step-by-step solution

To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Rearrange the equation 16+x=12\frac{1}{6} + x = \frac{1}{2} to solve for xx.
  • Step 2: Subtract 16\frac{1}{6} from both sides of the equation, so x=1216x = \frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{6}.
  • Step 3: Using a common denominator for subtraction.

Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: Rearrange the equation: x=1216x = \frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{6}.
Step 2: To subtract fractions, we need a common denominator. The least common denominator of 2 and 6 is 6.
Step 3: Rewrite each fraction with the common denominator:
12=36 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{3}{6} And 16\frac{1}{6} is already with the denominator 6.
Step 4: Subtract the fractions: x=3616=26x = \frac{3}{6} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{2}{6}.
Step 5: Simplify 26\frac{2}{6} to 13\frac{1}{3}.

Therefore, the solution to the problem is x=13 x = \frac{1}{3} .

3

Final Answer

13 \frac{1}{3}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Subtract the known fraction from both sides to isolate
  • Technique: Convert 12 \frac{1}{2} to 36 \frac{3}{6} when LCD is 6
  • Check: Verify 16+13=16+26=36=12 \frac{1}{6} + \frac{1}{3} = \frac{1}{6} + \frac{2}{6} = \frac{3}{6} = \frac{1}{2}

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Adding fractions without finding common denominator
    Don't just add numerators and denominators separately like 1216=04 \frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{0}{-4} ! This gives completely wrong answers because you're not following fraction rules. Always find the LCD first, then convert both fractions before subtracting.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Solve the following exercise:

\( \frac{3}{9}+\frac{1}{9}=\text{?} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just subtract the numerators and denominators separately?

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Fractions represent parts of a whole, so you need the same-sized parts (same denominator) to add or subtract them. It's like trying to add 1 apple and 1 orange - you need a common unit first!

How do I find the LCD of 2 and 6?

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List multiples of each number: 2 has multiples 2, 4, 6, 8... and 6 has multiples 6, 12, 18... The smallest common multiple is 6, so LCD = 6.

What if I get confused about which fraction to convert?

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Convert both fractions to the LCD to be safe! Even if one already has the LCD as denominator, converting both helps you see the pattern clearly.

Do I always need to simplify my final answer?

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Yes! Always simplify fractions to lowest terms. 26 \frac{2}{6} should become 13 \frac{1}{3} by dividing both numerator and denominator by their GCD (which is 2).

How can I check if my answer is correct?

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Substitute your answer back into the original equation: 16+13 \frac{1}{6} + \frac{1}{3} . Convert to common denominator and add to see if you get 12 \frac{1}{2} !

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