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For example, you have 2/3 and 4/5

Fractions have this funny property:

2/3= 2*2/3*2= 2*3/3*3=2*4/3*4=2*a/3*a

and so, we can fina a "common factor" between two numerators( in this case 3 and 5) so that you can muiltiply both side by a number which can make the fractions "alike"

In this case, what number is divisible for both 3 and 5.

THe easiest way is 3*5=15.

So we have:

2/3=2*5/3*5=10/15 (this fraction is still the same with 2/3)

and

4*3/5*3=12/15(again this is the same as 4/5)

so we have the sum between them are:

2/3 + 4/5 = 10/15 + 12/15 = 22/15

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Q: How do you subtract and reduce unlike fractions?
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Related questions

What problems can be solved using gcf and LCM?

Finding the LCM will make adding and subtracting fractions easier.


Do you add and subtract like and unlike fractions in the same way?

no, to add and subtract like and unlike fractions the denominator has to be the same,


How do GCF and LCM involve with the real world?

Use the GCF to reduce fractions. Use the LCM to add and subtract unlike fractions. Carpenters work with fractions a lot.


What are the steps to subtract unlike fractions?

first find a common denominator then subtract the top numbers


What is a situation where you would use LCM?

To add and subtract unlike fractions.


When do you use LCM in math?

When you want to add or subtract unlike fractions.


Why do you have to turn unlike fractions into like fractions to add or subtract?

because its just one of the rules of math :)


How do you subtract fractions without alike denominators?

Convert unlike fractions to equivalent fractions with common denominators by finding the LCM of the denominators.


Why do you need to use common denominator?

To get the right answer when you add or subtract unlike fractions.


When you add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators why do you have to find LCM?

Because to add fractions, the denominators must be equal.


How do you add and subtract by fractions?

If the fractions have the same denominator, add and subtract the numerators as if the denominators weren't there and put the result over that denominator. Reduce if possible. If the fractions have different denominators, find the LCM of the denominators and convert the fractions to equivalent fractions with like denominators. Then add and subtract the numerators as if the denominators weren't there and put the result over that denominator. Reduce if possible.


How do you add and subtract unlike positive and negative fractions?

-1/2+7/10