math help

What is 10/12 + 2/4?

What is 10/12 + 2/4?

Here's how to add

10
12
+
2
4

Step 1

Our denominators (bottom numbers) don't match, so we can't add yet.

Since 4 is evenly divided by 12, we can multiply just one term to get a common denominator.

Multiply 2 by 3, and get 6, then we multiply 4 by 3 and get 12.

2/4 times 3

So now our fractions look like this:

10
12
+
6
12

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

10 + 6 = 16

Now we have an answer.

16
12

Step 3

Last of all, we need to simplify the fraction, if possible. Can it be reduced to a simpler fraction?

To find out, we try dividing it by 2...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

16
12
÷ 2 =
8
6

Now, try the same number again.

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

8
6
÷ 2 =
4
3

Now, try the same number again.

Nope. Try the next prime number, 3...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 5...

No good. 5 is larger than 4. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 10/12 + 2/4

10
12
+
2
4
=
4
3
© 2014 Randy Tayler