Adding Mixed Numbers: 1 1/2 + 1 3/8 as a Fraction
When dealing with mixed numbers, it's essential to understand how to add them correctly. In this article, we'll explore how to add 1 1/2 and 1 3/8 as a fraction.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To add these mixed numbers, we need to convert them into improper fractions. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
Convert 1 1/2 to an Improper Fraction
1 1/2 = 3/2 + 1 = 5/2
Convert 1 3/8 to an Improper Fraction
1 3/8 = 8/8 + 3/8 = 11/8
Step 2: Add the Improper Fractions
Now that we have both mixed numbers converted to improper fractions, we can add them:
5/2 + 11/8 = ?
To add these fractions, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of 2 and 8, which is 8. So, we'll convert both fractions to have a denominator of 8:
5/2 = 20/8 11/8 = 11/8
Now, add the fractions:
20/8 + 11/8 = 31/8
The Result
The result of adding 1 1/2 and 1 3/8 as a fraction is:
31/8
There you have it! By converting the mixed numbers to improper fractions and finding the least common multiple, we were able to add 1 1/2 and 1 3/8 successfully.
