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To solve this problem, we will follow these steps:
Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: The denominators of the given fractions are 5 and 15. The least common multiple (LCM) of these numbers is 15, so 15 will be our common denominator.
Step 2: Convert each fraction to have the denominator of 15:
-  is converted by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by 3, resulting in .
-  is converted by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by 3, yielding .
-  is already in terms of the common denominator.
Step 3: Perform the subtraction and addition:
- Start by subtracting  from :
Now, add and :
Finally, simplify by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 3:
Therefore, the solution to the problem is .
Complete the following exercise:
\( \frac{3}{4}:\frac{5}{6}=\text{?} \)
Because fractions represent parts of different-sized wholes! means 1 piece of something cut into 5 parts, while means 3 pieces cut into 15 parts. You need the same size pieces to combine them.
List the multiples: 5: 5, 10, 15, 20... 15: 15, 30, 45... The smallest number that appears in both lists is 15, so that's your LCD!
You'll still get the right answer eventually, but it will take more steps! Using a common denominator that's not the least just means bigger numbers that you'll need to simplify later.
Yes! Always check if you can reduce your fraction. Divide both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor. In this problem, simplifies to .
You could, but it's much harder! You'd have to find a common denominator for the first two fractions, then find another common denominator with the third. The LCD method is faster and less error-prone.
Same process! Find the LCD of all denominators, convert every fraction, then add and subtract from left to right. The method works for any number of fractions.
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