Adding & Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole and consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).

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What does it mean to have unlike denominators?

Back

Unlike denominators are when the bottom numbers of two or more fractions are different, making it necessary to find a common denominator to add or subtract them.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) is the smallest multiple that two or more denominators share. You can find it by listing the multiples of each denominator and identifying the smallest one.

Front

What is the first step in adding fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

The first step is to find the least common denominator (LCD) of the fractions.

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How do you convert fractions to have a common denominator?

Back

To convert fractions to have a common denominator, multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the necessary factor to reach the LCD.

Front

What is the process of adding fractions?

Back

1. Find the LCD. 2. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD. 3. Add the numerators and keep the denominator the same. 4. Simplify if necessary.

Front

What is the process of subtracting fractions?

Back

1. Find the LCD. 2. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD. 3. Subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same. 4. Simplify if necessary.

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What is an example of adding fractions with unlike denominators?

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Example: 1/3 + 1/4. The LCD is 12. Convert: 1/3 = 4/12 and 1/4 = 3/12. Then, 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.

Front

What is an example of subtracting fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Example: 3/4 - 1/6. The LCD is 12. Convert: 3/4 = 9/12 and 1/6 = 2/12. Then, 9/12 - 2/12 = 7/12.

Front

How do you simplify a fraction?

Back

To simplify a fraction, divide the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF).