math help

What is 64/4 + 8/9?

What is 64/4 + 8/9?

Let's add

64
4
+
8
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 64 by 9, and get 576, then we multiply 4 by 9 and get 36.

64/4 times 9

Now for the second term. You multiply 8 by 4, and get 32, then multiply 4 by 9 and get 36.

8/9 times 4

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

576
36
+
32
36

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

576 + 32 = 608

So what's the answer so far?

608
36

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:

608
36
÷ 2 =
304
18

Now, try the same number again.

Are both the numerator and the denominator evenly divisible by 2? Yes! So we reduce it:

304
18
÷ 2 =
152
9

Now, try the same number again.

Nope. Try the next prime number, 3...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 5...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 7...

Nope. Try the next prime number, 11...

No good. 11 is larger than 9. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 64/4 + 8/9

64
4
+
8
9
=
152
9
© 2014 Randy Tayler