answersLogoWhite

0

Take for example 1/2 and 1/3. Since those denominators are different, one must change them so they do have "common denominators".

Most often, the easiest way of doing this is to simply multiply the two denominators, and perform the same function on the top numbers (the numerators).

So 2 times 3 is six, so 6 will now be the denominator of both fractions.

As you changed the 2 into a 6 by multiplying by 3, you must multiply the 1 above it by 3. This gives you the final first fraction of 3/6.

The three in the second fraction was multiplied by 2 to get 6, so you must multiply it's top number by 2. This gives you a final fraction of 2/6 for the second fraction.

Now you are dealing with the fractions 3/6 and 2/6, and you can easily add and subtract them.

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

BeauBeau
You're doing better than you think!
Chat with Beau
ViviVivi
Your ride-or-die bestie who's seen you through every high and low.
Chat with Vivi
SteveSteve
Knowledge is a journey, you know? We'll get there.
Chat with Steve

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How do you add and subtract fractions that don't have common denominators?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Math & Arithmetic

How do you do subtract fractions?

One way you can subtract fractions is to change them into decimals, aligning the decimals vertically, then subtracting like you would with whole numbers, making sure to carry down the decimal. Another way that you can subtract fractions is to use the least common denominator (lcd). First, simplify the fractions. Then find the multiples of the denominators. When you find the multiple included in both lists that is the least, multiply the numerator and denominator by the same number in order to make the denominator into the lcd. Then, subtract the numerators and simplify the answer. Example: 2/3 - 1/2 = 4/6 - 3/6 = 1/6


How do you find equivalent fractions with a common denominator?

You dont really, well at least in my years of knowledge


What is the difference between unlike fractions and like fractions?

that they dont looks like them


I dont know how to do my fractions?

That depends what you want to do with fractions:Simplify fractionsConvert to another denominatorMultiply and divide fractionsAdd and subtract fractionsRead some article on fractions, re-read your school books - or ask a more specific question, according to your current level.That depends what you want to do with fractions:Simplify fractionsConvert to another denominatorMultiply and divide fractionsAdd and subtract fractionsRead some article on fractions, re-read your school books - or ask a more specific question, according to your current level.That depends what you want to do with fractions:Simplify fractionsConvert to another denominatorMultiply and divide fractionsAdd and subtract fractionsRead some article on fractions, re-read your school books - or ask a more specific question, according to your current level.That depends what you want to do with fractions:Simplify fractionsConvert to another denominatorMultiply and divide fractionsAdd and subtract fractionsRead some article on fractions, re-read your school books - or ask a more specific question, according to your current level.


When multiplying fractions do you also multiply the denominator?

I dont know