math help

What is 50/8 + 6/9?

What is 50/8 + 6/9?

This is how we add

50
8
+
6
9

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 50 by 9, and get 450, then we multiply 8 by 9 and get 72.

50/8 times 9

Now for the second term. You multiply 6 by 8, and get 48, then multiply 8 by 9 and get 72.

6/9 times 8

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

450
72
+
48
72

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

450 + 48 = 498

That gives us an answer of

498
72

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:

498
72
÷ 2 =
249
36

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:

249
36
÷ 3 =
83
12

Now, try the same number again.

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...

No good. 13 is larger than 12. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 50/8 + 6/9

50
8
+
6
9
=
83
12
© 2014 Randy Tayler