Question

What are the steps in adding fractions with the different denominators? Use example 2/4 + 1/12 =?

Answer 1

To add fractions with different denominators like 2/4 and 1/12, you must find the least common denominator, convert each fraction to this denominator, then add the numerators and keep the LCD as the denominator. The example results in the sum of 7/12.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student asked about the steps in adding fractions with different denominators. The process involves finding a common denominator, adjusting each fraction to have this common denominator, and then adding the numerators together while keeping the denominator the same. For example, to add 2/4 and 1/12, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Least Common Denominator (LCD). In this case, the LCD of 4 and 12 is 12.
2. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD as the denominator. The first fraction becomes 2/4 × 3/3 = 6/12, as we multiply both the numerator and denominator by 3 to get the LCD. For the second fraction, it's already 1/12, so no change is needed.
3. Add the numerators of the resulting fractions: 6/12 + 1/12 = 7/12.
4. The answer is 7/12, which is already in simplest form.

This result can be checked for accuracy because the sum falls between the two original fractions, which is consistent with our intuitive understanding of fraction addition.