What is 3/8 + 1/4?
Calculate 3/8 + 1/4 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to add fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
3/8 + 1/4 = \frac{5}{8}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
We need to add two fractions: 3/8 and 1/4
To add fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{3}{8} + \frac{1}{4} = ?
Step 2
Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
The denominators are different (8 and 4), so we need to find a common denominator.
The LCD is the smallest number that both 8 and 4 divide into evenly.
Since GCD(8, 4) = 4, we calculate LCD = (8 × 4) ÷ 4 = 8
\text{LCD}(8, 4) = 8
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply 3/8 to get denominator of 8:
Multiply both top and bottom by 1
\frac{3}{8} = \frac{3 \times 1}{8 \times 1} = \frac{3}{8}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply 1/4 to get denominator of 8:
Multiply both top and bottom by 2
\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 2}{4 \times 2} = \frac{2}{8}
Step 5
Add the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator (8).
Add the numerators: 3 + 2 = 5
\frac{3}{8} + \frac{2}{8} = \frac{3 + 2}{8} = \frac{5}{8}