Adding Mixed Numbers: 6 1/3 + 4 1/2 as a Fraction
When working with mixed numbers, it's essential to understand how to add them correctly. In this article, we'll explore how to add 6 1/3 and 4 1/2 as a fraction.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To add mixed numbers, 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.
6 1/3
To convert 6 1/3 to an improper fraction, we'll multiply the whole number part (6) by the denominator (3) and then add the numerator (1).
6 × 3 = 18 18 + 1 = 19
So, 6 1/3 as an improper fraction is 19/3.
4 1/2
To convert 4 1/2 to an improper fraction, we'll follow the same steps.
4 × 2 = 8 8 + 1 = 9
So, 4 1/2 as an improper fraction is 9/2.
Step 2: Add the Improper Fractions
Now that we have the improper fractions, we can add them.
19/3 + 9/2
To add these fractions, we need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, which are 3 and 2. The LCM of 3 and 2 is 6. So, we'll convert both fractions to have a denominator of 6.
19/3 = 38/6 9/2 = 27/6
Now, we can add the fractions.
38/6 + 27/6 = 65/6
Step 3: Simplify the Fraction
The resulting fraction is 65/6. We can simplify this fraction by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 1.
65/6
So, 6 1/3 + 4 1/2 as a fraction is equal to 65/6.
By following these steps, you can easily add mixed numbers and convert them to improper fractions. Remember to simplify your answer to get the final result.