What is 5/9 + 11/12?
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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 5 by 12, and get 60, then we multiply 9 by 12 and get 108. Now for the second term. You multiply 11 by 9, and get 99, then multiply 9 by 12 and get 108. This gives us a new problem that looks like so:
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Step 2Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators. 60 + 99 = 159 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... Nope. Try the next prime number, 3... Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 3? Yes! So we reduce it:
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... Nope. Try the next prime number, 17... Nope. Try the next prime number, 19... Nope. Try the next prime number, 23... Nope. Try the next prime number, 29... Nope. Try the next prime number, 31... Nope. Try the next prime number, 37... No good. 37 is larger than 36. So we're done reducing. Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 5/9 + 11/12
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