What is 3/20 + 2/12?
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This is how you add
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Step 1We 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 3 by 12, and get 36, then we multiply 20 by 12 and get 240. Now for the second term. You multiply 2 by 20, and get 40, then multiply 20 by 12 and get 240. This gives us a new problem that looks like so:
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Step 2Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators. 36 + 40 = 76 So what's the answer so far?
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Step 3Can 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:
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... Nope. Try the next prime number, 23... No good. 23 is larger than 19. So we're done reducing. Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 3/20 + 2/12
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