This is how you add
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Step 1Our denominators (bottom numbers) don't match, so we can't add yet. Since 9 is evenly divided by 72, we can multiply just one term to get a common denominator. Multiply 3 by 8, and get 24, then we multiply 9 by 8 and get 72. So now our fractions look like this:
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Step 2Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators. 100 + 24 = 124 So the answer is:
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Step 3Last 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:
Now, try the same number again. Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:
Now, try the same number again. Nope. Try the next prime number, 3... Nope. Try the next prime number, 5... Nope. Try the next prime number, 7... Nope. Try the next prime number, 11... Nope. Try the next prime number, 13... Nope. Try the next prime number, 17... Nope. Try the next prime number, 19... No good. 19 is larger than 18. So we're done reducing. Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 100/72 + 3/9
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