math help

What is 34/3 + 4/8?

What is 34/3 + 4/8?

Here's how to add

34
3
+
4
8

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 34 by 8, and get 272, then we multiply 3 by 8 and get 24.

34/3 times 8

Now for the second term. You multiply 4 by 3, and get 12, then multiply 3 by 8 and get 24.

4/8 times 3

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

272
24
+
12
24

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

272 + 12 = 284

That gives us an answer of

284
24

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:

284
24
÷ 2 =
142
12

Now, try the same number again.

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

142
12
÷ 2 =
71
6

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...

No good. 7 is larger than 6. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 34/3 + 4/8

34
3
+
4
8
=
71
6
© 2014 Randy Tayler