What is 1/4 + 1/2?
Calculate 1/4 + 1/2 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to add fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
1/4 + 1/2 = \frac{3}{4}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
We need to add two fractions: 1/4 and 1/2
To add fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{2} = ?
Step 2
Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
The denominators are different (4 and 2), so we need to find a common denominator.
The LCD is the smallest number that both 4 and 2 divide into evenly.
Since GCD(4, 2) = 2, we calculate LCD = (4 × 2) ÷ 2 = 4
\text{LCD}(4, 2) = 4
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply 1/4 to get denominator of 4:
Multiply both top and bottom by 1
\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 1}{4 \times 1} = \frac{1}{4}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply 1/2 to get denominator of 4:
Multiply both top and bottom by 2
\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1 \times 2}{2 \times 2} = \frac{2}{4}
Step 5
Add the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator (4).
Add the numerators: 1 + 2 = 3
\frac{1}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{1 + 2}{4} = \frac{3}{4}