Adding and Subtracting Mixed Numbers

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a fraction, such as 2 \frac{3}{4}.

Front

How do you convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?

Back

Multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place the result over the original denominator. For example, 2 \frac{3}{4} = \frac{(2 \times 4) + 3}{4} = \frac{11}{4}.

Front

What is the process for adding mixed numbers?

Back

1. Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions. 2. Find a common denominator. 3. Add the fractions. 4. Convert back to a mixed number if necessary.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest multiple that two or more denominators share. For example, the LCD of 1/4 and 2/5 is 20.

Front

How do you subtract mixed numbers?

Back

1. Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions. 2. Find a common denominator. 3. Subtract the fractions. 4. Convert back to a mixed number if necessary.

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as \frac{9}{4}.

Front

How do you simplify a fraction?

Back

Divide the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF). For example, \frac{6}{8} simplifies to \frac{3}{4}.

Front

What are equivalent fractions?

Back

Equivalent fractions are different fractions that represent the same value, such as \frac{1}{2} and \frac{2}{4}.

Front

How do you find the GCF of two numbers?

Back

List the factors of each number and find the largest factor they have in common. For example, the GCF of 8 and 12 is 4.

Front

What is the first step in adding fractions with different denominators?

Back

Find the least common denominator (LCD) of the fractions.