math help

What is 30/50 + 2/3?

What is 30/50 + 2/3?

Let's add

30
50
+
2
3

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 30 by 3, and get 90, then we multiply 50 by 3 and get 150.

30/50 times 3

Now for the second term. You multiply 2 by 50, and get 100, then multiply 50 by 3 and get 150.

2/3 times 50

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

90
150
+
100
150

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

90 + 100 = 190

So what's the answer so far?

190
150

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:

190
150
÷ 2 =
95
75

Now, try the same number again.

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

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

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 5? Yes! So we reduce it:

95
75
÷ 5 =
19
15

Now, try the same number again.

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...

No good. 17 is larger than 15. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 30/50 + 2/3

30
50
+
2
3
=
19
15
© 2014 Randy Tayler