Write a group of three unlike fractions. Note We can add fractions only if they are like fractions. 2 Add Like Fractions To add like fractions, as in Example 1, we use these steps. Procedure Adding Like Fractions To add like fractions: 1) Add the numerators. 2) Use the denominator of the like fractions as the denominator of the sum. 3) Write the answer in lowest terms. Note After you have added fractions, always look at the result and ask yourself, “Is the answer in lowest terms?” If it is not, write the answer in lowest terms. Add. a) 4 9 1 9 b) 2 3 5 3 c) 7 15 1 15 2 15 Solution a) Because the denominators are the same, we add the numerators and use the denominator 9. 4 9 1 9 4 1 9 5 9 Add the numerators, and keep the denominator the same. Ask yourself, “Is 5 9 in lowest terms?” Yes. Therefore, 4 9 1 9 5 9 . Let’s verify this using a number line. b) 2 3 and 5 3 4 9 1 1 9 5 5 9 0 6 1 9 5 9 4 9 3 9 2 9 1 9 8 9 7 9 (or 9 ) are like fractions, so add the numerators and use the denominator 3. 2 3 5 3 2 5 3 7 3 or 2 1 3 9 Write the answer as an improper fraction or as a mixed number. Ask yourself, “Are 7 3 and 2 1 3 in lowest terms?” Yes. Therefore, 2 3 5 3 7 3 or 2 1 3 . Let’s look at this on a number line. EXAMPLE 2 or 2 1 8 3 7 3 3 2 3 2 3 1 5 3 5 0 1 5 3 4 3 2 3 1 3 7 3 (or 9 ) 3 (or 3 ) 3 (or 6 ) 3 (or 2 1 ) 3 224 CHAPTER 4 Adding and Subtracting Fractions www.mhhe.com/messersmith
messersmith_power_basic_college_1e_ch4_7_10
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