math help

What is 53/9 + 3/4?

What is 53/9 + 3/4?

This is how to add

53
9
+
3
4

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 53 by 4, and get 212, then we multiply 9 by 4 and get 36.

53/9 times 4

Now for the second term. You multiply 3 by 9, and get 27, then multiply 9 by 4 and get 36.

3/4 times 9

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

212
36
+
27
36

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

212 + 27 = 239

So what's the answer so far?

239
36

Step 3

Can this fraction be reduced?

First, we attempt to divide it by 2...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 3...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 5...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 7...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 11...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 13...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 17...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 19...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 23...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 29...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 31...

Nope! So now we try the next greatest prime number, 37...

No good. 37 is larger than 36. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! Here's the final answer to 53/9 + 3/4

53
9
+
3
4
=
239
36
© 2014 Randy Tayler