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Two fractions having different denominators cannot be added or subtracted directly. They need to be converted to equivalent fractions having the same denominator to enable the addition or subtraction to take place. It is possible to use the product of the denominators of the original fractions as the common denominator but it simplifies the mathematics if the lowest common multiple of the two denominators is used.

EXAMPLE : Add 2/5 and 3/7. The lowest common denominator (also the LCM) of 5 and 7 is 35.

2/5 is equivalent to 2 x 7/5 x 7 = 14/35 : 3/7 is equivalent to 3 x 5/7 x 5 = 15/35

2/5 + 3/7 = 14/35 + 15/35 = 29/35

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14y ago
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Q: What is the connection between the LCM and adding or subtracting fractions?
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