Question

Can someone explain how to add fractions with different common denominators? e.g. 16/48 + 1/8?

Answer 1

So to do operations on fractions, their denominator (the number on the bottom) has to be the same. We can use one basic property of fractions to help this:
\[\frac{x}{x} = 1\]

Answer 2

We can multiply our fraction by something over itself to get it in a new form:
\[\frac{1}{8} * \frac{6}{6} = \frac{6}{48}\]

Answer 3

right, so you must find a common multiple for the values of the denominators

Answer 4

now since they have a common denominator, we can do the operation:
\[\frac{16}{8} + \frac{6}{48} = \frac{22}{48}\]

Answer 5

OOPS! that should be
\[\frac{16}{48}\]

Answer 6

guys this is really helpful

Answer 7

great! ask any more questions you have on the left!

if i helped you, please fan me :)

Answer 8

Thanks guys, I understand better now!

Answer 9

you didn't simplify 22/48
it should be 11/24

Answer 10

ya wanna see another way? I use this to get all the fractions out of an equation

Answer 11

16/48 + 1/8 = x
Multiply everything by the first denominator
16 + 48/8 = 48x
then the second denominator (repeat this for every fraction)
128 + 48 = 384x
then solve
176/384 = x
and simplify
11/24 = x