Adding and Subtracting Fractions (Unlike Denominators)

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

Unlike denominators are denominators that are not the same. For example, in $$\frac{1}{4}$$ and $$\frac{1}{3}$$ , 4 and 3 are unlike denominators.

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

The common denominator of $$\frac{3}{8}$$ and $$\frac{1}{4}$$ is 8.

$$\frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{8}$$ .

$$\frac{3}{8} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{5}{8}$$ .

To subtract fractions with unlike denominators, find a common denominator, convert the fractions, and then subtract the numerators.

$$\frac{7}{8} - \frac{3}{4} = \frac{1}{8}$$ .

The first step is to find a common denominator.

An equivalent fraction is a fraction that represents the same value as another fraction, even though the numerator and denominator are different.