Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts for adding fractions with unlike denominators from Math with Mr. J.

Denominator

The bottom number of a fraction, which must be the same across fractions in order to add them and is kept the same in the final sum.

Numerator

The top number of a fraction, which gets added together once fractions share a common denominator.

Common denominator

A shared bottom number between fractions that is required before adding them together.

Least common multiple

The smallest multiple shared between denominators, used to determine a common denominator that keeps numbers smaller and cuts down on simplifying at the end.

Equivalent fraction

A fraction that retains the exact same value after renaming, achieved by multiplying the numerator by the same number used to multiply the denominator.

Simplest form

The state of a fraction where it cannot be broken down any further because the only common factor between the numerator and denominator is $1$.

Steps to add fractions with unlike denominators

The sequence of actions to solve the problem: find a common denominator, rename with that common denominator, add the numerators, and check if the result can be simplified.