What must be done if the denominators of the fractions being added or subtracted are different?

What must be done if the denominators of the fractions being added or subtracted are different?

• A. Ignore the denominators
• B. Find a common denominator
• C. Divide both denominators by the greatest common factor
• D. Multiply both fractions by the same number

Answer: (B)

When adding or subtracting fractions with different denominators, it is essential to find a common denominator. A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators that allows the fractions to be expressed with the same base, enabling the addition or subtraction to be carried out correctly. Finding a common denominator involves determining the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. Once this LCM is identified, each fraction is then converted to an equivalent fraction that has the common denominator. This conversion often requires multiplying both the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the appropriate number that results in the common denominator. By doing this, you ensure that the fractions represent the same size parts and can be accurately added or subtracted. This process is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the values being calculated.

When adding or subtracting fractions with different denominators, it is essential to find a common denominator. A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators that allows the fractions to be expressed with the same base, enabling the addition or subtraction to be carried out correctly.

Finding a common denominator involves determining the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. Once this LCM is identified, each fraction is then converted to an equivalent fraction that has the common denominator. This conversion often requires multiplying both the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the appropriate number that results in the common denominator.

By doing this, you ensure that the fractions represent the same size parts and can be accurately added or subtracted. This process is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the values being calculated.