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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 would you add or subtract fractions with like denominators?
The same way you would add or subtract whole numbers, leaving the denominators alone.
How does using fraction strips with like denominators make it possible to add fractions with unlike denominators?
because they are the same number
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.
Can you explain adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators?
When you add or subtract fractions with like denominators, you just add or subtract the numerators and put them over the same denominator. For example, 3/5 - 2/5 = (3 - 2)/5 = 1/5
