This is how we add
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Step 1Now we need to make our denominators match. Since 4 is evenly divided by 12, we can multiply just one term to get a common denominator. Multiply 4 by 3, and get 12, then we multiply 4 by 3 and get 12. So now our fractions look like this:
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Step 2Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators. 12 + 4 = 16 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:
Let's try dividing by that again... Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:
Let's try dividing by that again... Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 3... Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 5... No good. 5 is larger than 4. So we're done reducing. There you have it! Here's the final answer to 4/4 + 4/12
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