Adding Fractions

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

The numerator is the top number of a fraction and represents how many parts we have.

The denominator is the bottom number of a fraction and represents the total number of equal parts the whole is divided into.

To add fractions with the same denominator, keep the denominator the same and add the numerators. For example, 1/4 + 2/4 = (1+2)/4 = 3/4.

To add fractions with different denominators, first find a common denominator, convert the fractions, and then add the numerators.

A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions, allowing them to be added or subtracted.

Example: 1/3 + 1/6. The common denominator is 6. Convert 1/3 to 2/6, then add: 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6 = 1/2.

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as 5/4.

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction, such as 1 1/2.

To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number, and the remainder is the new numerator.