math help

What is 36/4 + 3/6?

What is 36/4 + 3/6?

Here's how to add

36
4
+
3
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 36 by 6, and get 216, then we multiply 4 by 6 and get 24.

36/4 times 6

Now for the second term. You multiply 3 by 4, and get 12, then multiply 4 by 6 and get 24.

3/6 times 4

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

216
24
+
12
24

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

216 + 12 = 228

That gives us an answer of

228
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:

228
24
÷ 2 =
114
12

Now, try the same number again.

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

114
12
÷ 2 =
57
6

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:

57
6
÷ 3 =
19
2

Now, try the same number again.

No good. 3 is larger than 2. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 36/4 + 3/6

36
4
+
3
6
=
19
2
© 2014 Randy Tayler