Solve the following exercise:
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Solve the following exercise:
To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:
Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: The denominators of the fractions are 4 and 9. The least common multiple of 4 and 9 is 36. Therefore, 36 will be our common denominator.
Step 2: Convert and to have a denominator of 36:
and
Step 3: Now, subtract the fractions:
Step 4: Simplify :
Both 15 and 36 can be divided by their greatest common divisor, which is 3. Dividing both the numerator and denominator by 3, we get:
Therefore, the solution to the problem is .
\( \frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{4}= \)
Fractions don't work like regular subtraction! You can only subtract numerators when the denominators are the same. Think of it like pizza slices - you can't subtract quarters from ninths directly.
List multiples: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36 and 9, 18, 27, 36. The first number that appears in both lists is your LCM!
Yes! Always check if your answer can be reduced. Divide both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor. becomes when divided by 3.
Lucky you! Just subtract the numerators and keep the same denominator. For example: .
No! In subtraction, your answer will always be smaller than the first fraction. If you get a larger result, check your work - you likely made an error in finding the common denominator.
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