What is 1/4 + 1/5?
Calculate 1/4 + 1/5 with a complete step-by-step solution. Learn how to add fractions and understand the process.
Answer:
1/4 + 1/5 = \frac{9}{20}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
We need to add two fractions: 1/4 and 1/5
To add fractions, they must have the same denominator (bottom number).
\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{5} = ?
Step 2
Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD)
The denominators are different (4 and 5), so we need to find a common denominator.
The LCD is the smallest number that both 4 and 5 divide into evenly.
LCD = 4 × 5 = 20
\text{LCD}(4, 5) = 20
Step 3
Convert First Fraction
Multiply 1/4 to get denominator of 20:
Multiply both top and bottom by 5
\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 5}{4 \times 5} = \frac{5}{20}
Step 4
Convert Second Fraction
Multiply 1/5 to get denominator of 20:
Multiply both top and bottom by 4
\frac{1}{5} = \frac{1 \times 4}{5 \times 4} = \frac{4}{20}
Step 5
Add the Fractions
Now both fractions have the same denominator (20).
Add the numerators: 5 + 4 = 9
\frac{5}{20} + \frac{4}{20} = \frac{5 + 4}{20} = \frac{9}{20}