Solve the following exercise:
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Solve the following exercise:
To solve this problem, we'll walk through these steps:
Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: Determine the least common denominator (LCD).
The denominators are 5 and 6. Since there is no common factor, the LCD is .
Step 2: Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD.
For , multiply numerator and denominator by 6 to get .
For , multiply numerator and denominator by 5 to get .
Step 3: Subtract the fractions with the same denominator.
.
Step 4: Simplify the resulting fraction.
can be simplified by dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 2.
Thus, .
Therefore, the solution to the problem is .
\( \frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{4}= \)
Fractions represent parts of a whole, not separate numbers! You need the same denominator (same-sized pieces) before you can subtract. Think of it like subtracting 2 fifths from 2 sixths - they're different sized pieces!
When denominators like 5 and 6 share no common factors, simply multiply them together: 5 × 6 = 30. This gives you the LCD quickly without factoring!
Yes, always simplify! Look for the greatest common divisor (GCD) of numerator and denominator. For , both divide by 2, giving .
Great! The larger denominator becomes your LCD. For example, with denominators 3 and 6, use 6 as LCD since 6 ÷ 3 = 2 exactly.
You could, but fractions are more precise! Converting and creates rounding errors. Stick with fractions for exact answers.
Your LCD should be divisible by both original denominators. Check: 30 ÷ 5 = 6 ✓ and 30 ÷ 6 = 5 ✓. If either division has a remainder, find a different LCD!
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