Adding Fractions With Unlike Denominators

TL;DR

Learn how to add fractions by finding a common denominator and adding the numerators.

Transcript

in this video we're going to talk about how to add two fractions so let's start with this example 2 over 3 plus 3 over 4. so how can we add these two fractions the first thing you could do is multiply the denominators of the fractions three times four is twelve and then cross multiply two times four is eight and then multiply 3 times 3 and that wil... Read More

Key Insights

• 🪜 Adding fractions involves finding a common denominator and adding the numerators.
• 😵 The traditional method multiplies the denominators and cross multiplies the numerators.
• 😒 The new method uses a common denominator and allows for adding multiple fractions.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do you add fractions using the traditional method?

To add fractions using the traditional method, multiply the denominators to find the common denominator. Then, cross multiply the numerators and add the products. Simplify the resulting fraction if necessary.

Q: Can you explain the new method of adding fractions using a common denominator?

The new method involves getting a common denominator for all the fractions. Multiply each fraction's numerator and denominator by the necessary factors to achieve the common denominator. Finally, add the numerators and keep the common denominator to get the sum.

Q: What should you do if you need to add three fractions together?

To add three fractions together, find the least common multiple of the denominators. Multiply each fraction's numerator and denominator by the required factors to attain the common denominator. Finally, add the numerators and retain the common denominator.

Q: How can you add fractions when the denominators don't have a common multiple?

In cases where the denominators don't have a common multiple, you can't add the fractions directly. However, you can convert the fractions to equivalent fractions with a common denominator by finding the least common multiple of the denominators.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video teaches how to add fractions by multiplying the denominators, cross multiplying the numerators, and then adding the products.

• It demonstrates two examples of adding fractions: 2/3 + 3/4 and 5/3 + 1/2.

• The video also introduces a new method using a common denominator, which is useful for adding multiple fractions.