math help

What is 55/55 + 3/4?

What is 55/55 + 3/4?

Here's how you add

55
55
+
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 55 by 4, and get 220, then we multiply 55 by 4 and get 220.

55/55 times 4

Now for the second term. You multiply 3 by 55, and get 165, then multiply 55 by 4 and get 220.

3/4 times 55

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

220
220
+
165
220

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

220 + 165 = 385

So what's the answer so far?

385
220

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...

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 5? Yes! So we reduce it:

385
220
÷ 5 =
77
44

Let's try dividing by that again...

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

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

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 11? Yes! So we reduce it:

77
44
÷ 11 =
7
4

Let's try dividing by that again...

No good. 11 is larger than 7. So we're done reducing.

There you have it! Here's the final answer to 55/55 + 3/4

55
55
+
3
4
=
7
4
© 2014 Randy Tayler