math help

What is 6/2 + 2/3?

What is 6/2 + 2/3?

This is how to add

6
2
+
2
3

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 6 by 3, and get 18, then we multiply 2 by 3 and get 6.

6/2 times 3

Now for the second term. You multiply 2 by 2, and get 4, then multiply 2 by 3 and get 6.

2/3 times 2

This gives us a new problem that looks like so:

18
6
+
4
6

Step 2

Since our denominators match, we can add the numerators.

18 + 4 = 22

So what's the answer so far?

22
6

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:

22
6
÷ 2 =
11
3

Now, try the same number again.

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

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

No good. 5 is larger than 3. So we're done reducing.

Congratulations! Here's your final answer to 6/2 + 2/3

6
2
+
2
3
=
11
3
© 2014 Randy Tayler