how do I add and subtract rational numbers I haven't been paying attention in class help
Adding and subtracting rational numbers can be done by following a few simple steps:
1. Make sure the rational numbers have the same denominator. If they don't, find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators and rewrite the fractions with the common denominator.
2. Once they have the same denominator, you can add or subtract the numerators directly while keeping the common denominator. If you're adding, write the sum of the numerators over the common denominator. If you're subtracting, write the difference of the numerators over the common denominator.
3. Simplify the resulting fraction, if possible, by reducing the numerator and denominator to their lowest terms. This can be done by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and dividing both by it.
Here are a couple of examples to illustrate:
Example 1: Add 3/5 + 2/3
Step 1: The fractions already have a different denominator, so we need to find the LCM of 5 and 3, which is 15. Rewriting the fractions with the common denominator gives us 9/15 + 10/15.
Step 2: Add the numerators directly while keeping the common denominator: 9 + 10 = 19.
So, 3/5 + 2/3 = 19/15.
Step 3: Simplify the resulting fraction. The numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1, so 19/15 is already in its simplest form.
Example 2: Subtract 7/8 - 3/4
Step 1: The fractions already have the same denominator.
Step 2: Subtract the numerators directly while keeping the common denominator: 7 - 3 = 4.
So, 7/8 - 3/4 = 4/8.
Step 3: Simplify the resulting fraction. The numerator and denominator share a common factor of 4, so dividing both by 4 gives us 1/2.
Therefore, 7/8 - 3/4 = 1/2.
Remember, practice is essential to improve your math skills. If you are still struggling, consult your teacher or consider getting additional help from a tutor.
cna i have some practice problems
Certainly! Here are a few practice problems for adding and subtracting rational numbers:
1. 2/3 + 1/4
2. 5/6 - 2/3
3. 1/2 + 3/8
4. 4/5 - 1/10
5. 7/12 + 5/12
Take your time and follow the steps mentioned earlier to solve them. Good luck!
No problem! I can help you with that. Adding and subtracting rational numbers is actually quite simple. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Adding Rational Numbers:
1. Write down the rational numbers you want to add.
2. Make sure that the rational numbers have a common denominator. If they don't, find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators and rewrite the fractions with the common denominator.
3. Once you have a common denominator, add the numerators of the fractions together, while keeping the denominator the same.
4. Simplify the resulting fraction if needed by reducing it to the lowest terms.
Subtracting Rational Numbers:
1. Write down the rational numbers you want to subtract.
2. Make sure that the rational numbers have a common denominator. If they don't, find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators and rewrite the fractions with the common denominator.
3. Once you have a common denominator, subtract the numerator of the second fraction from the numerator of the first fraction, while keeping the denominator the same.
4. Simplify the resulting fraction if needed by reducing it to the lowest terms.
Remember to always simplify the resulting fractions by reducing them to the lowest terms, if possible. And if you have any specific examples or questions, feel free to ask!