Adding Mixed Numbers: 1 1/2 + 2 1/3
Adding mixed numbers requires a bit more than simply adding the whole and fractional parts separately. Here's how to solve 1 1/2 + 2 1/3 step-by-step:
1. Find a Common Denominator
The fractions in the problem have different denominators (2 and 3). To add them, we need a common denominator. The least common multiple of 2 and 3 is 6.
- Convert 1/2 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 6: (1/2) * (3/3) = 3/6
- Convert 1/3 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 6: (1/3) * (2/2) = 2/6
2. Add the Whole Numbers and Fractions Separately
Now our problem looks like this:
1 3/6 + 2 2/6
- Add the whole numbers: 1 + 2 = 3
- Add the fractions: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6
3. Combine the Whole and Fractional Parts
The result is 3 5/6.
Simplifying the Answer
The fraction 5/6 is already in its simplest form, so 3 5/6 is our final answer.