Simplifying Fractions: 1/4 + 1/3 + 1/9
When we deal with fractions, one of the most important tasks is to simplify them. Simplifying fractions means expressing them in their simplest form, where the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1. In this article, we will explore how to simplify the fraction 1/4 + 1/3 + 1/9.
Step 1: Find the Least Common Multiple (LCM)
To add these fractions, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of their denominators, which are 4, 3, and 9. The LCM of 4, 3, and 9 is 36. This means we need to convert each fraction to have a denominator of 36.
Step 2: Convert the Fractions
Let's convert each fraction to have a denominator of 36:
- 1/4 = 9/36
- 1/3 = 12/36
- 1/9 = 4/36
Step 3: Add the Fractions
Now that all fractions have the same denominator, we can add them:
9/36 + 12/36 + 4/36 = 25/36
The Simplified Answer
The simplified form of 1/4 + 1/3 + 1/9 is 25/36.
In conclusion, by finding the least common multiple of the denominators, converting the fractions, and then adding them, we simplified the fraction 1/4 + 1/3 + 1/9 to its simplest form, which is 25/36.
