Adding Mixed Fractions: 2 1/4 + 3/5
In this article, we will learn how to add two mixed fractions, specifically 2 1/4 and 3/5. Adding mixed fractions can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, you'll be able to do it easily.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Fractions to Improper Fractions
To add mixed fractions, we need to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
Convert 2 1/4 to an Improper Fraction
To convert 2 1/4 to an improper fraction, we multiply the whole number part (2) by the denominator (4) and then add the numerator (1).
2 × 4 = 8 8 + 1 = 9
So, 2 1/4 is equivalent to 9/4.
Convert 3/5 to an Improper Fraction
Since 3/5 is already a proper fraction, we don't need to convert it.
Step 2: Find a Common Denominator
To add the two fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 5 is 20.
Step 3: Convert Both Fractions to Have a Denominator of 20
Convert 9/4 to Have a Denominator of 20
To convert 9/4 to have a denominator of 20, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 5.
9 × 5 = 45 4 × 5 = 20
So, 9/4 is equivalent to 45/20.
Convert 3/5 to Have a Denominator of 20
To convert 3/5 to have a denominator of 20, we multiply both the numerator and the denominator by 4.
3 × 4 = 12 5 × 4 = 20
So, 3/5 is equivalent to 12/20.
Step 4: Add the Fractions
Now that we have both fractions with a denominator of 20, we can add them.
45/20 + 12/20 = 57/20
Step 5: Simplify the Fraction (Optional)
If possible, we can simplify the resulting fraction. In this case, we can divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 1.
57/20 cannot be simplified further.
Therefore, the result of adding 2 1/4 and 3/5 as a fraction is 57/20.
