math help

What is 6/9 + 4/6?

What is 6/9 + 4/6?

Here's how we add

6
9
+
4
6

Step 1

We still have different denominators (bottom numbers), though, so we need to get a common denominator. This will make the bottom numbers match. Multiply the denominators together first. Now, multiply each numerator by the other term's denominator.

Now we multiply 6 by 6, and get 36, then we multiply 9 by 6 and get 54.

6/9 times 6

Now for the second term. You multiply 4 by 9, and get 36, then multiply 9 by 6 and get 54.

4/6 times 9

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

36
54
+
36
54

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

36 + 36 = 72

That gives us an answer of

72
54

Step 3

Can this fraction be reduced?

First, we attempt to divide it by 2...

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

72
54
÷ 2 =
36
27

Now, try the same number again.

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

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 3? Yes! So we reduce it:

36
27
÷ 3 =
12
9

Now, try the same number again.

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 3? Yes! So we reduce it:

12
9
÷ 3 =
4
3

Now, try the same number again.

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 6/9 + 4/6

6
9
+
4
6
=
4
3
© 2014 Randy Tayler