Adding/Subtracting Fractions & Conversions

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number). For example, in the fraction 1/2, 1 is the numerator and 2 is the denominator.

Front

What does it mean to add fractions?

Back

Adding fractions means combining two or more fractions to find a total. To add fractions with the same denominator, simply add the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

Front

What does it mean to subtract fractions?

Back

Subtracting fractions means finding the difference between two fractions. To subtract fractions with the same denominator, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

Front

How do you convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?

Back

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

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as 9/4 or 5/5.

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a fraction, such as 2 1/3, which means 2 whole parts and 1/3 of another part.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest number that can be used as a common denominator for two or more fractions.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator?

Back

To find the least common denominator, list the multiples of each denominator and find the smallest multiple that appears in both lists.

Front

What is the process for adding fractions with different denominators?

Back

To add fractions with different denominators, first find the least common denominator, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD, and then add the numerators.

Front

What is the process for subtracting fractions with different denominators?

Back

To subtract fractions with different denominators, find the least common denominator, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD, and then subtract the numerators.