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jim1174
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What is the easiest method for adding and subtracting rational numbers
You need to be more specific. Do you mean rational numbers represented as fractions, like ##\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{5}## or rational numbers represented as decimal fractions, like .5 + .6?jim1174 said:What is the easiest method for adding and subtracting rational numbers
jim1174 said:What is the easiest method for adding and subtracting rational numbers
To elaborate on what AMenendez is saying, we are multiplying each fraction by 1 in some form so as to get the denominator we want.AMenendez said:So, the standard way of adding / subtracting numbers is to first identify a ``least common denominator". So, say I had:
##\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{7}##
Well, what is the smallest number that is a multiple of both 2 and 7? It's 14. So now, how do we write the original fractions with denominators of 14? Well, we multiply 2 by 7 to get 14, so we do the same to the numberator, 1. Likewise, we multiply 7 by 2 to get 14, so we multiply 3 by 2 to get 6. So we may write
##\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{7} = \frac{7}{14} + \frac{6}{14} = \frac{13}{14}##
AMenendez said:Which doesn't reduce. So, very roughly speaking,
##\frac{a}{bc} + \frac{d}{ef} = \frac{(aef)+(bcd)}{bcef}##
Rational numbers are numbers that can be expressed as a ratio of two integers, such as 1/2, 3/4, or -5/6. They can also be written in decimal form, either terminating (ex: 0.25) or repeating (ex: 0.333...).
The easiest method for adding rational numbers is to first make sure that the denominators (bottom numbers) are the same. If they are not, you can find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators and convert each fraction to an equivalent one with the LCM as the denominator. Then, simply add the numerators (top numbers) and keep the denominator the same.
The easiest method for subtracting rational numbers is similar to adding them. First, make sure the denominators are the same. If not, find the LCM and convert each fraction. Then, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.
Yes, there are a few shortcuts that can make adding and subtracting rational numbers easier. For example, if the denominators are the same, you can simply add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same. You can also use a number line or a visual representation to help with the process.
Yes, most calculators have a function for adding and subtracting fractions or rational numbers. However, it is important to understand the concept and process of adding and subtracting rational numbers by hand in order to use a calculator effectively.