answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

To add fraction with different denominators, you want to move both fractions to a common denominator. You can do this by multiplying each fraction by the a fraction whose numerator and denominator is the same as the opposing fractions denominator.

Example:

7 / 8 + 1 / 2

Multiply each fraction by the other fractions denominator over itself. This will work without changing the value because x / x = 1.

(7 / 8 ) * ( 2 / 2 ) + ( 1 / 2 ) * ( 8 / 8)

Simplify.

14 /16 + 8 / 16

Now just add the numerators together.

24 / 16

Simplify

3 / 2 or 1 1/2

You can also use any other numbers that will get your denominators to the same place. Remember, x / x = 1. And multiplying by 1 doesn't effect the value of the fraction.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How do you add fractions with diffrent denominators?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Other Math

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 three fractions without the same denominators?

When you want to add fractions that have different denominators, you have to convert them into fractions that do have the same denominators. So for example, how much is a half plus a third? Both of these can be converted into sixths, so one half equals three sixths, and one third equals two sixths. Three sixths plus two sixths equals five sixths. That's the answer. If you have three fractions with different denominators, the procedure is the same. Convert all three into fractions with the same denominators, then add them.


How would you add or subtract fractions with like denominators?

The same way you would add or subtract whole numbers, leaving the denominators alone.


Explain why you cannot add fractions with unlike denominators?

You can totally add fractions with unlike denominators. You have to first find the LCD (least common denominator) to make them the same denomintars. And then you can just simply add them. What you cannot do is add fractions with unlike denominators without changing them to fractions with like denominators. The reason being that you would be attempting to add fractions that are different sizes. 1/2 is not the same size as 1/3, so it would be like trying to add apples and oranges. You have to change them to a common size and that is the reason you have to find the least common denominator first. While you cannot add 1/2 and 1/3, you can add 3/6 and 2/6.


How does using fraction strips with like denominators make it possible to add fractions with unlike denominators?

because they are the same number

Related questions

Do you add denominators in fractions?

No.


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 is adding like fractions and adding unlike fractions the same?

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. Then add and simplify.


How do you add two fractions that have like denominators?

In fractions, you can NEVER add or subtract


Why are two fractions converted into like fractions?

Because you can't add or subtract fractions that have different denominators. Making them like fractions, by multiplying so the denominators are the same, you can add and/or subtract them.


How do you add fractions togather?

first make denominators the same and add.


How do you add fractions step by step?

you make fractions equivalent denominators, you add the numerators and put it over the denominator


Why does the equivalent fraction make adding and subtracting fractions easier?

You cannot add or subtract fractions with different denominators. If the denominators are different then you need to work with equivalent fractions.


When adding fractions with unlike denominators it is most helpful if the fractions are renamed using the?

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.


Does adding numerators and denominators work in fraction addition?

To add fractions, you cannot simply add the numberators and add the denominators. To add fractions, they must first have the same denominator. Once they have the same denominator, you can then simply add the numerators.


What do you not have to think about when you add or subtract fractions?

Whether the denominators are common or not.