Because it's easier to get the correct answer this way. Example: 1/3 + 1/4. Without a common denominator, what do you think the answer would be? 1/7? 2/7? 11/34?
The correct answer is 7/12, which can most easily be found by converting 1/3 to 4/12 and 1/4 to 3/12.
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If the denominators are not the same, then you have to use equivalent fractions which do have a common denominator . To do this, you need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the two denominators. To add fractions with unlike denominators, rename the fractions with a common denominator.
You don't need a common denominator to divide fractions.
No only when adding or subtracting fractions a common denominator is needed
To find the least common denominator of a set of unlike fractions, you first need to list the prime factors of each denominator. Then, identify the highest power of each prime factor that appears in any of the denominators. Finally, multiply these highest powers together to find the least common multiple, which will be the least common denominator for the fractions.
No, You only need a common denominator when adding or subtracting fractions.