Fraction Addition

Well first you need to find the common denominator of both numbers. The common denominator is the least common multiple the denominator (the number at the bottom) of both numbers have. Once you’ve figured that out, you multiply the top numbers of what you multiplied the bottom
 
Though it may not be the least common denominator, you can always get a common denominator by multiplying the two denominator, here 8 and 5, together.
 
Observe that [MATH]\frac{x}{x} = 1[/MATH] for any fraction where [MATH]x \ne 0[/MATH]. Also note that when multiplying some number by 1, the result will be the same number you started with. You can use this fact to change the denominator in a fraction:

[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2}{5} * 1[/MATH]
[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2}{5} * \frac{8}{8}[/MATH]
[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{16}{40}[/MATH]
[MATH]\frac{3}{8} = \frac{3}{8} * \frac{5}{5} = \frac{15}{40}[/MATH]​

The fractions [MATH]\frac{8}{8}[/MATH] and [MATH]\frac{5}{5}[/MATH] were chosen because they were formed from the denominators of the "other" fraction, which ensures both of the fractions now have a denominator of [MATH]8 * 5 = 40[/MATH]. With the denominators equivalent, adding [MATH]\frac{16}{40} + \frac{15}{40}[/MATH] becomes trivial.
 
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Well first you need to find the common denominator of both numbers. The common denominator is the least common multiple the denominator (the number at the bottom) of both numbers have. Once you’ve figured that out, you multiply the top numbers of what you multiplied the bottom
Thanks...I followed your instructions, & got the answer- 31/40
 
Observe that [MATH]\frac{x}{x} = 1[/MATH] for any fraction where [MATH]x \ne 0[/MATH]. Also note that when multiplying some number by 1, the result will be the same number you started with. You can use this fact to change the denominator in a fraction:

[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2}{5} * 1[/MATH]​
[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{2}{5} * \frac{8}{8}[/MATH]​
[MATH]\frac{2}{5} = \frac{16}{40}[/MATH]​
[MATH]\frac{3}{8} = \frac{3}{8} * \frac{5}{5} = \frac{15}{40}[/MATH]​

The fractions [MATH]\frac{8}{8}[/MATH] and [MATH]\frac{5}{5}[/MATH] were chosen because they were formed from the denominators of the "other" fraction, which ensures both of the fractions now have a denominator of [MATH]8 * 5 = 40[/MATH]. With the denominators equivalent, adding [MATH]\frac{16}{40} + \frac{15}{40}[/MATH] becomes trivial.
Thank u very much..
 
For students, there are lots of lessons and examples available on the Internet. Search keywords like how to add fractions, to find written and video sites -- like this one.

If you see something you don't understand, tell us what it is. If you need more help, please show us what you tried, so we can see where you need help.

?
Ok. Thanks..
 
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