CHAPTER 2 Operations with Rational Numbers and Introduction to Real Numbers

2.2 Add and Subtract Fractions

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

  • Add or subtract fractions with a common denominator
  • Add or subtract fractions with different denominators
  • Use the order of operations to simplify complex fractions
  • Evaluate variable expressions with fractions

Add or Subtract Fractions with a Common Denominator

When we multiplied fractions, we just multiplied the numerators and multiplied the denominators right straight across. To add or subtract fractions, they must have a common denominator.

Fraction Addition and Subtraction

If a,b,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}c are numbers where c\ne 0, then

\frac{a}{c}+\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a+b}{c}\phantom{\rule{1em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{1em}{0ex}}\frac{a}{c}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a-b}{c}

To add or subtract fractions, add or subtract the numerators and place the result over the common denominator.

EXAMPLE 1

Find the sum: \frac{x}{3}+\frac{2}{3}.

Solution
\frac{x}{3}+\frac{2}{3}
Add the numerators and place the sum over the common denominator. \frac{x+2}{3}

TRY IT 1.1

Find the sum: \frac{x}{4}+\frac{3}{4}.

Show answer

\frac{x+3}{4}

TRY IT 1.2

Find the sum: \frac{y}{8}+\frac{5}{8}.

Show answer

\frac{y+5}{8}

EXAMPLE 2

Find the difference: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{23}{24}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{13}{24}.

Solution
-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{23}{24}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{13}{24}
Subtract the numerators and place the difference over the common denominator. \frac{-23-13}{24}
Simplify. \frac{-36}{24}
Simplify. Remember, -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{a}{b}=\frac{-a}{b}. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{2}

TRY IT 2.1

Find the difference: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{19}{28}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{28}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{26}{28}

TRY IT 2.2

Find the difference: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{27}{32}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{32}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{8}

EXAMPLE 3

Simplify: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{10}{x}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{x}.

Solution
-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{10}{x}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{x}
Subtract the numerators and place the difference over the common denominator. \frac{-14}{x}
Rewrite with the sign in front of the fraction. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{14}{x}

TRY IT 3.1

Find the difference: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{x}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{x}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{16}{x}

TRY IT 3.2

Find the difference: -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{17}{a}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{a}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{22}{a}

Now we will do an example that has both addition and subtraction.

EXAMPLE 4

Simplify: \frac{3}{8}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{8}\right)-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{8}.

Solution
Add and subtract fractions—do they have a common denominator? Yes. \frac{3}{8}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{8}\right)-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{8}
Add and subtract the numerators and place the difference over the common denominator. \frac{3+\left(-5\right)-1}{8}
Simplify left to right. \frac{-2-1}{8}
Simplify. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8}

TRY IT 4.1

Simplify: \frac{2}{5}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{9}\right)-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{9}.

Show answer

-1

TRY IT 4.2

Simplify: \frac{5}{9}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{9}\right)-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{9}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}

Add or Subtract Fractions with Different Denominators

As we have seen, to add or subtract fractions, their denominators must be the same. The least common denominator (LCD) of two fractions is the smallest number that can be used as a common denominator of the fractions. The LCD of the two fractions is the least common multiple (LCM) of their denominators.

Least Common Denominator

The least common denominator (LCD) of two fractions is the least common multiple (LCM) of their denominators.

After we find the least common denominator of two fractions, we convert the fractions to equivalent fractions with the LCD. Putting these steps together allows us to add and subtract fractions because their denominators will be the same!

EXAMPLE 5

Add: \frac{7}{12}+\frac{5}{18}.

Solution

In this figure, we have a table with directions on the left, hints or explanations in the middle, and mathematical statements on the right. On the first line, we have “Step 1. Do they have a common denominator? No – rewrite each fraction with the LCD (least common denominator).” To the right of this, we have the statement “No. Find the LCD 12, 18.” To the right of this, we have 12 equals 2 times 2 times 3 and 18 equals 2 times 3 times 3. The LCD is hence 2 times 2 times 3 times 3, which equals 36. As another hint, we have “Change into equivalent fractions with the LCD,. Do not simplify the equivalent fractions! If you do, you’ll get back to the original fractions and lose the common denominator!” To the right of this, we have 7/12 plus 5/18, which becomes the quantity (7 times 3) over the quantity (12 times 3) plus the quantity (5 times 2) over the quantity (18 times 2), which becomes 21/36 plus 10/36.The next step reads “Step 2. Add or subtract the fractions.” The hint reads “Add.” And we have 31/36.The final step reads “Step 3. Simplify, if possible.” The explanation reads “Because 31 is a prime number, it has no factors in common with 36. The answer is simplified.”

TRY IT 5.1

Add: \frac{7}{12}+\frac{11}{15}.

Show answer

\frac{79}{60}

TRY IT 5.2

Add: \frac{13}{15}+\frac{17}{20}.

Show answer

\frac{103}{60}

HOW TO: Add or Subtract Fractions

  1. Do they have a common denominator?
    • Yes—go to step 2.
    • No—rewrite each fraction with the LCD (least common denominator). Find the LCD. Change each fraction into an equivalent fraction with the LCD as its denominator.
  2. Add or subtract the fractions.
  3. Simplify, if possible.

When finding the equivalent fractions needed to create the common denominators, there is a quick way to find the number we need to multiply both the numerator and denominator. This method works if we found the LCD by factoring into primes.

Look at the factors of the LCD and then at each column above those factors. The “missing” factors of each denominator are the numbers we need.

The number 12 is factored into 2 times 2 times 3 with an extra space after the 3, and the number 18 is factored into 2 times 3 times 3 with an extra space between the 2 and the first 3. There are arrows pointing to these extra spaces that are marked “missing factors.” The LCD is marked as 2 times 2 times 3 times 3, which is equal to 36. The numbers that create the LCD are the factors from 12 and 18, with the common factors counted only once (namely, the first 2 and the first 3).

In (Example 5), the LCD, 36, has two factors of 2 and two factors of 3.

The numerator 12 has two factors of 2 but only one of 3—so it is “missing” one 3—we multiply the numerator and denominator by 3

The numerator 18 is missing one factor of 2—so we multiply the numerator and denominator by 2

We will apply this method as we subtract the fractions in (Example 6).

EXAMPLE 6

Subtract: \frac{7}{15}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{19}{24}.

Solution

Do the fractions have a common denominator? No, so we need to find the LCD.

Find the LCD.\phantom{\rule{5em}{0ex}}.
Notice, 15 is “missing” three factors of 2 and 24 is “missing” the 5 from the factors of the LCD. So we multiply 8 in the first fraction and 5 in the second fraction to get the LCD.
Rewrite as equivalent fractions with the LCD. .
Simplify. .
Subtract. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{39}{120}
Check to see if the answer can be simplified. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{13\cdot 3}{40\cdot 3}
Both 39 and 120 have a factor of 3.
Simplify. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{13}{40}

Do not simplify the equivalent fractions! If you do, you’ll get back to the original fractions and lose the common denominator!

TRY IT 6.1

Subtract: \frac{13}{24}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{17}{32}.

Show answer

\frac{1}{96}

TRY IT 6.2

Subtract: \frac{21}{32}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{28}.

Show answer

\frac{75}{224}

In the next example, one of the fractions has a variable in its numerator. Notice that we do the same steps as when both numerators are numbers.

EXAMPLE 7

Add: \frac{3}{5}+\frac{x}{8}.

Solution

The fractions have different denominators.

\phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}.
Find the LCD.\phantom{\rule{4em}{0ex}}.
Rewrite as equivalent fractions with the LCD. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}.
Simplify. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}.
Add. \phantom{\rule{2em}{0ex}}.

 

TRY IT 7.1

Add: \frac{y}{6}+\frac{7}{9}.

Show answer

\frac{9y+42}{54}

TRY IT 7.2

Add: \frac{x}{6}+\frac{7}{15}.

Show answer

\frac{15x+42}{135}

We now have all four operations for fractions. The table below summarizes fraction operations.

Summary of Fraction Operations
Fraction Operation Sample Equation What to Do
Fraction multiplication \frac{a}{b} \cdot \frac{c}{d}=\frac{ac}{bd} Multiply the numerators and multiply the denominators
Fraction division \frac{a}{b} \div \frac{c}{d}=\frac{a}{b}\cdot \frac{d}{c} Multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second.
Fraction addition \frac{a}{c}+\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a+b}{c} Add the numerators and place the sum over the common denominator.
Fraction subtraction \frac{a}{c}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a-b}{c} Subtract the numerators and place the difference over the common denominator.

To multiply or divide fractions, an LCD is NOT needed. To add or subtract fractions, an LCD is needed.

EXAMPLE 8

Simplify: a) \frac{5x}{6}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{10} b) \frac{5x}{6}\cdot\frac{3}{10}.


Solution

First ask, “What is the operation?” Once we identify the operation that will determine whether we need a common denominator. Remember, we need a common denominator to add or subtract, but not to multiply or divide.

a) What is the operation? The operation is subtraction.
Do the fractions have a common denominator? No. \frac{5x}{6}-\frac{3}{10}
Rewrite each fraction as an equivalent fraction with the LCD. \frac{5x\cdot5}{6\cdot5}-\frac{3\cdot3}{10\cdot3}

\frac{25x}{30}-\frac{9}{30}
Subtract the numerators and place the difference over the common denominators. \frac{25x-9}{30}
Simplify, if possible. There are no common factors. The fraction is simplified.
b) What is the operation? Multiplication. \frac{5x}{6}\cdot\frac{3}{10}
To multiply fractions, multiply the numerators and multiply the denominators. \frac{5x\cdot3}{6\cdot10}
Rewrite, showing common factors. Remove common factors. \frac{\overline{)5}x \cdot \overline{)3}}{2\cdot\overline{)3}\cdot2\cdot\overline{)5}}
Simplify. \frac{x}{4}

Notice we needed an LCD to add \frac{5x}{6}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{10}, but not to multiply \frac{5x}{6}\cdot\frac{3}{10}.

TRY IT 8.1

Simplify. a) \frac{27a-32}{36} b) \frac{2a}{3}

Show answer

a) \frac{27a-32}{36} b) \frac{2a}{3}

TRY IT 8.2

Simplify: a) \frac{4k}{5}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6} b) \frac{4k}{5}\cdot \frac{1}{6}.

Show answer

a) \frac{24k-5}{30} b) \frac{2k}{15}

Use the Order of Operations to Simplify Complex Fractions

We have seen that a complex fraction is a fraction in which the numerator or denominator contains a fraction. The fraction bar indicates division. We simplified the complex fraction \frac{\frac{3}{4}}{\frac{5}{8}} by dividing \frac{3}{4} by \frac{5}{8}.

Now we’ll look at complex fractions where the numerator or denominator contains an expression that can be simplified. So we first must completely simplify the numerator and denominator separately using the order of operations. Then we divide the numerator by the denominator.

EXAMPLE 9

Simplify: \frac{{\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)}^{2}}{4+{3}^{2}}.

Solution

In this figure, we have a table with directions on the left and mathematical statements on the right. On the first line, we have “Step 1. Simplify the numerator. Remember one half squared means one half times one half.” To the right of this, we have the quantity (1/2) squared all over the quantity (4 plus 3 squared). Then, we have 1/4 over the quantity (4 plus 3 squared).The next line’s direction reads “Step 2. Simplify the denominator.” To the right of this, we have 1/4 over the quantity (4 plus 9), under which we have 1/4 over 13.The final step is “Step 3. Divide the numerator by the denominator. Simplify if possible. Remember, thirteen equals thirteen over 1.” To the right we have 1/4 divided by 13. Then we have 1/4 times 1/13, which equals 1/52.

TRY IT 9.1

Simplify: \frac{{\left(\frac{1}{3}\right)}^{2}}{{2}^{3}+2}.

Show answer

\frac{1}{90}

TRY IT 9.2

Simplify: \frac{1+{4}^{2}}{{\left(\frac{1}{4}\right)}^{2}}.

Show answer

272

HOW TO: Simplify Complex Fractions

  1. Simplify the numerator.
  2. Simplify the denominator.
  3. Divide the numerator by the denominator. Simplify if possible.

EXAMPLE 10

Simplify: \frac{\frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{3}}{\frac{3}{4}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}}.

Solution

It may help to put parentheses around the numerator and the denominator.

\frac{\left(\frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{3}\right)}{\left(\frac{3}{4}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}\right)}
Simplify the numerator (LCD = 6) and simplify the denominator (LCD = 12). \frac{\left(\frac{3}{6}+\frac{4}{6}\right)}{\left(\frac{9}{12}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{12}\right)}
Simplify. \frac{\left(\frac{7}{6}\right)}{\left(\frac{7}{12}\right)}
Divide the numerator by the denominator. \frac{7}{6}\div \frac{7}{12}
Simplify. \frac{7}{6}\cdot\frac{12}{7}
Divide out common factors. \frac{7\cdot6\cdot2}{6\cdot7}
Simplify. 2

TRY IT 10.1

Simplify: \frac{\frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{2}}{\frac{3}{4}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3}}.

Show answer

2

TRY IT 10.2

Simplify: \frac{\frac{2}{3}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}}{\frac{1}{4}+\frac{1}{3}}.

Show answer

\frac{2}{7}

Evaluate Variable Expressions with Fractions

We have evaluated expressions before, but now we can evaluate expressions with fractions. Remember, to evaluate an expression, we substitute the value of the variable into the expression and then simplify.

EXAMPLE 11

Evaluate x+\frac{1}{3} when a) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3} b) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}.

Solution
  1. To evaluate x+\frac{1}{3} when x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3}, substitute -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3} for x in the expression.
    .
    . .
    Simplify.\phantom{\rule{18em}{0ex}} 0

     

  2. To evaluate x+\frac{1}{3} when x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}, we substitute -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4} for x in the expression.
    .
    . .
    Rewrite as equivalent fractions with the LCD, 12. .
    Simplify. .
    Add. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{12}

TRY IT 11.1

Evaluate x+\frac{3}{4} when a) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{4} b) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{4}.

Show answer

a) -1 b) -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}

TRY IT 11.2

Evaluate y+\frac{1}{2} when a) y=\frac{2}{3} b) y=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}.

Show answer

a) \frac{7}{6} b) -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{12}

EXAMPLE 12

Evaluate -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{6}-y when y=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}.

Solution
.
. .
Rewrite as equivalent fractions with the LCD, 6. .
Subtract. .
Simplify. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}

TRY IT 12.1

Evaluate -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}-y when y=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{4}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{4}

TRY IT 12.2

Evaluate -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8}-y when x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{2}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{17}{8}

EXAMPLE 13

Evaluate 2{x}^{2}y when x=\frac{1}{4} and y=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}.

Solution

Substitute the values into the expression.

2{x}^{2}y
. .
Simplify exponents first. 2\left(\frac{1}{16}\right)\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}\right)
Multiply. Divide out the common factors. Notice we write 16 as 2\cdot 2\cdot 4 to make it easy to remove common factors. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{\overline{)2}\cdot 1\cdot \overline{)2}}{\overline{)2}\cdot \overline{)2}\cdot 4\cdot 3}
Simplify. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{12}

TRY IT 13.1

Evaluate 3a{b}^{2} when a=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3} and b=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}

TRY IT 13.2

Evaluate 4{c}^{3}d when c=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2} and d=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{3}.

Show answer

\frac{2}{3}

The next example will have only variables, no constants.

EXAMPLE 14

Evaluate \frac{p+q}{r} when p=-4,q=-2,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}r=8.

Solution

To evaluate \frac{p+q}{r} when p=-4,q=-2,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}r=8, we substitute the values into the expression.

\frac{p+q}{r}
. .
Add in the numerator first. \frac{-6}{8}
Simplify. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}

TRY IT 14.1

Evaluate \frac{a+b}{c} when a=-8,b=-7,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}c=6.

Show answer

-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{2}

TRY IT 14.2

Evaluate \frac{x+y}{z} when x=9,y=-18,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}z=-6.

Show answer

\frac{3}{2}

Key Concepts

  • Fraction Addition and Subtraction: If a,b,\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\text{and}\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}c are numbers where c\ne 0, then
    \frac{a}{c}+\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a+b}{c} and \frac{a}{c}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{b}{c}=\frac{a-b}{c}.
    To add or subtract fractions, add or subtract the numerators and place the result over the common denominator.
  • Strategy for Adding or Subtracting Fractions
    1. Do they have a common denominator?
      Yes—go to step 2.
      No—Rewrite each fraction with the LCD (Least Common Denominator). Find the LCD. Change each fraction into an equivalent fraction with the LCD as its denominator.
    2. Add or subtract the fractions.
    3. Simplify, if possible. To multiply or divide fractions, an LCD IS NOT needed. To add or subtract fractions, an LCD IS needed.
  • Simplify Complex Fractions
    1. Simplify the numerator.
    2. Simplify the denominator.
    3. Divide the numerator by the denominator. Simplify if possible.

Glossary

least common denominator
The least common denominator (LCD) of two fractions is the Least common multiple (LCM) of their denominators.

Practice Makes Perfect

Add and Subtract Fractions with a Common Denominator

In the following exercises, add.

1. \frac{6}{13}+\frac{5}{13} 2. \frac{4}{15}+\frac{7}{15}
3. \frac{x}{4}+\frac{3}{4} 4. \frac{8}{q}+\frac{6}{q}
5. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{16}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{16}\right) 6. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{16}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{16}\right)
7. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{8}{17}+\frac{15}{17} 8. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{19}+\frac{17}{19}
9. \frac{6}{13}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{10}{13}\right)+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{12}{13}\right) 10. \frac{5}{12}+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{12}\right)+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{11}{12}\right)
In the following exercises, subtract.
11. \frac{11}{15}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{15} 12. \frac{9}{13}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{13}
13. \frac{11}{12}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{12} 14. \frac{7}{12}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{12}
15. \frac{19}{21}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{21} 16. \frac{17}{21}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{8}{21}
17. \frac{5y}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{8} 18. \frac{11z}{13}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{8}{13}
19. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{23}{u}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{15}{u} 20. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{29}{v}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{26}{v}
21. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{5}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{5}\right) 22. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{7}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{7}\right)
23. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{9}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{9}\right) 24. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{8}{11}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{11}\right)

Mixed Practice

In the following exercises, simplify.

25. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{18}\cdot \frac{9}{10} 26. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{14}\cdot \frac{7}{12}
27. \frac{n}{5}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{5} 28. \frac{6}{11}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{s}{11}
29. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{24}+\frac{2}{24} 30. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{18}+\frac{1}{18}
31. \frac{8}{15}\div \frac{12}{5} 32. \frac{7}{12}\div\frac{9}{28}

Add or Subtract Fractions with Different Denominators

In the following exercises, add or subtract.

33. \frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{7} 34. \frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{8}
35. \frac{1}{3}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{9}\right) 36. \frac{1}{4}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{8}\right)
37. \frac{7}{12}+\frac{5}{8} 38. \frac{5}{12}+\frac{3}{8}
39. \frac{7}{12}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{16} 40. \frac{7}{16}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{12}
41. \frac{2}{3}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8} 42. \frac{5}{6}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}
43. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{11}{30}+\frac{27}{40} 44. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{9}{20}+\frac{17}{30}
45. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{13}{30}+\frac{25}{42} 46. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{23}{30}+\frac{5}{48}
47. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{39}{56}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{22}{35} 48. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{33}{49}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{18}{35}
49. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}\right) 50. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}-\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{5}\right)
51. 1+\frac{7}{8} 52. 1-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{10}
53. \frac{x}{3}+\frac{1}{4} 54. \frac{y}{2}+\frac{2}{3}
55. \frac{y}{4}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{5} 56. \frac{x}{5}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{4}

Mixed Practice

In the following exercises, simplify.

57. a) \frac{2}{3}+\frac{1}{6} b) \frac{2}{3}\div \frac{1}{6} 58. a) -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{5}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{8} b) -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{5}\cdot \frac{1}{8}
59. a) \frac{5n}{6}\div \frac{8}{15} b) \frac{5n}{6}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{8}{15} 60. a) \frac{3a}{8}\div \frac{7}{12} b) \frac{3a}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{12}
61. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8}\div \left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{10}\right) 62. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{12}\div \left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{9}\right)
63. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8}+\frac{5}{12} 64. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{8}+\frac{7}{12}
65. \frac{5}{6}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{9} 66. \frac{5}{9}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}
67. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{7}{15}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{y}{4} 68. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{x}{11}
69. \frac{11}{12a}\cdot \frac{9a}{16} 70. \frac{10y}{13}\cdot \frac{8}{15y}

Use the Order of Operations to Simplify Complex Fractions

In the following exercises, simplify.

71. \frac{{2}^{3}+{4}^{2}}{{\left(\frac{2}{3}\right)}^{2}} 72. \frac{{3}^{3}-{3}^{2}}{{\left(\frac{3}{4}\right)}^{2}}
73. \frac{{\left(\frac{3}{5}\right)}^{2}}{{\left(\frac{3}{7}\right)}^{2}} 74. \frac{{\left(\frac{3}{4}\right)}^{2}}{{\left(\frac{5}{8}\right)}^{2}}
75. \frac{2}{\frac{1}{3}+\frac{1}{5}} 76. \frac{5}{\frac{1}{4}+\frac{1}{3}}
77. \frac{\frac{7}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}}{\frac{1}{2}+\frac{3}{8}} 78. \frac{\frac{3}{4}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{5}}{\frac{1}{4}+\frac{2}{5}}
79. \frac{1}{2}+\frac{2}{3}\cdot \frac{5}{12} 80. \frac{1}{3}+\frac{2}{5}\cdot \frac{3}{4}
81. 1-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{5}\div \frac{1}{10} 82. 1-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{6}\div \frac{1}{12}
83. \frac{2}{3}+\frac{1}{6}+\frac{3}{4} 84. \frac{2}{3}+\frac{1}{4}+\frac{3}{5}
85. \frac{3}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}+\frac{3}{4} 86. \frac{2}{5}+\frac{5}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4}
87. 12\left(\frac{9}{20}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{4}{15}\right) 88. 8\left(\frac{15}{16}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{6}\right)
89. \frac{\frac{5}{8}+\frac{1}{6}}{\frac{19}{24}} 90. \frac{\frac{1}{6}+\frac{3}{10}}{\frac{14}{30}}
91. \left(\frac{5}{9}+\frac{1}{6}\right)\div \left(\frac{2}{3}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}\right) 92. \left(\frac{3}{4}+\frac{1}{6}\right)\div \left(\frac{5}{8}-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3}\right)

Evaluate Variable Expressions with Fractions

In the following exercises, evaluate.

93. x+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{6}\right) when
a) x=\frac{1}{3}
b) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{6}		 94. x+\left(-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{11}{12}\right) when
a) x=\frac{11}{12}
b) x=\frac{3}{4}
95. x-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{5} when
a) x=\frac{3}{5}
b) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{5}		 96. x-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{3} when
a) x=\frac{2}{3}
b) x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3}
97. \frac{7}{10}-w when
a) w=\frac{1}{2}
b) w=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}		 98. \frac{5}{12}-w when
a) w=\frac{1}{4}
b) w=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{4}
99. 2{x}^{2}{y}^{3} when x=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{3} and y=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2} 100. 8{u}^{2}{v}^{3} when u=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{3}{4} and v=-\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2}
101. \frac{a+b}{a-b} when a=-3,b=8 102. \frac{r-s}{r+s} when r=10,s=-5

Everyday Math

103. Decorating Laronda is making covers for the throw pillows on her sofa. For each pillow cover, she needs \frac{1}{2} yard of print fabric and \frac{3}{8} yard of solid fabric. What is the total amount of fabric Laronda needs for each pillow cover? 104. Baking Samuel is baking chocolate chip cookies and oatmeal cookies. He needs \frac{1}{2} cup of sugar for the chocolate chip cookies and \frac{1}{4} of sugar for the oatmeal cookies. How much sugar does he need altogether?

Writing Exercises

105. Why do you need a common denominator to add or subtract fractions? Explain. 106. How do you find the LCD of 2 fractions?

Answers:

1. \frac{11}{13} 3. \frac{x+3}{4} 5. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{8}
7. \frac{7}{17} 9. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{16}{13} 11. \frac{4}{15}
13. \frac{1}{2} 15. \frac{5}{7} 17. \frac{5y-7}{8}
19. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{38}{u} 21. \frac{1}{5} 23. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{2}{9}
25. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{4} 27. \frac{n-4}{5} 29. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{24}
31. \frac{2}{9} 33. \frac{9}{14} 35. \frac{4}{9}
37. \frac{29}{24} 39. \frac{1}{48} 41. \frac{7}{24}
43. \frac{37}{120} 45. \frac{17}{105} 47. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{53}{40}
49. \frac{1}{12} 51. \frac{15}{8} 53. \frac{4x+3}{12}
55. \frac{4y-12}{20} 57. a)\frac{5}{6}b) 4 59. a)\frac{25n}{16}b)\frac{25n-16}{30}
61. \frac{5}{4} 63. \frac{1}{24} 65. \frac{13}{18}
67. \frac{-28-15y}{60} 69. \frac{33}{64} 71. 54
73. \frac{49}{25} 75. \frac{15}{4} 77. \frac{5}{21}
79. \frac{7}{9} 81. -5 83. \frac{19}{12}
85. \frac{23}{24} 87. \frac{11}{5} 89. 1
91. \frac{13}{3} 93. a) -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{2} b) -1 95. a) \frac{1}{5} b) -1
97. a) \frac{1}{5} b) \frac{6}{5} 99. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{1}{9} 101. -\phantom{\rule{0.2em}{0ex}}\frac{5}{11}
103. \frac{7}{8} yard 105. Answers may vary

Attributions

This chapter has been adapted from “Add and Subtract Fractions” in Elementary Algebra (OpenStax) by Lynn Marecek and MaryAnne Anthony-Smith, which is under a CC BY 4.0 Licence. Adapted by Izabela Mazur. See the Copyright page for more information.

License

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Introductory Algebra Copyright © 2021 by Izabela Mazur is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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