Question

How do write in simplest form given `5/8+7/8`?

Answer 1

`3/2`

Explanation:

When adding fractions, we always want the denominator to be the same. As in this instance, they are, we just add the numerators, keeping the denominator on the bottom.

`5/8+7/8 -> 12/8` as `5+7=12`

Now we need to find a number that can go into both `12` and `8`

As `8` is the smallest number, the number has to be `≤8`

`8` does not go into `12`
`7` goes doesn't go into `8` or `12`
`6` goes into `12`, but not `8`
`5` doesn't go into `8` or `12`
`4` goes into `8` and `12`

`therefore` we can simplify this ratio by dividing all terms by `4`

`12/8 -> 3/2` as `12/4=3` and `8/4=2`