1.4.4

Adding Fractions

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Adding and Subtracting Fractions

When we add or subtract fractions, we must make sure the denominator of both fractions is the same.

Illustrative background for Same denominatorIllustrative background for Same denominator ?? "content

Same denominator

  • If the denominator of both fractions is already the same we simply add or subtract the numerators.
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Same denominator 2

  • If the denominator of both fractions is already the same we simply add or subtract the numerators.
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Different denominators

  • If the denominators are not the same we need to make them the same using an equivalent fraction.
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Different denominators 2

  • When finding an equivalent fraction we must multiply or divide both the top and bottom row by the same amount.
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Different denominators 3

  • Once both the fractions have the same denominator we can add or subtract the numerators.
Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$? ?? "content

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • We cannot do the subtraction straight away because the fractions do not have the same denominator.
Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$? ?? "content

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • Using equivalent fractions, convert the fraction so that they have the same denominator.
Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?Illustrative background for What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$? ?? "content

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • Once both the fractions have the same denominator we can add or subtract the numerators.

Jump to other topics

1Number

1.1Place Value

1.2Factors & Multiples

1.3Operations

1.4Fractions, Decimals & Percentages

1.5Growth & Decay

1.6Measurements & Units

1.7Accuracy

2Algebra

3Ratio, Proportion & Rates of Change

4Geometry & Measures

5Probability

6Statistics

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