Add -1/2 + 3/8. Write your answer in simplest form.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to add the fractions ( -\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{8} ) and to express the answer in its simplest form.
Answer
The sum is \( \frac{-1}{8} \).
Answer for screen readers
The result of adding ( -\frac{1}{2} ) and ( \frac{3}{8} ) is ( \frac{-1}{8} ).
Steps to Solve
- Find a common denominator
The fractions ( -\frac{1}{2} ) and ( \frac{3}{8} ) need a common denominator. The least common multiple of the denominators 2 and 8 is 8.
- Convert fractions to the common denominator
Convert ( -\frac{1}{2} ) to eighths: [ -\frac{1}{2} = -\frac{1 \times 4}{2 \times 4} = -\frac{4}{8} ]
Now we have: [ -\frac{4}{8} + \frac{3}{8} ]
- Add the fractions
Combine the fractions: [ -\frac{4}{8} + \frac{3}{8} = \frac{-4 + 3}{8} = \frac{-1}{8} ]
- Simplify the fraction
Since ( \frac{-1}{8} ) is already in its simplest form, we can conclude our calculation here.
The result of adding ( -\frac{1}{2} ) and ( \frac{3}{8} ) is ( \frac{-1}{8} ).
More Information
This result shows how adding a negative fraction to a positive fraction can yield a negative result. The key takeaway is understanding how to find a common denominator for adding fractions.
Tips
- Forgetting to find a common denominator, which leads to incorrect addition of the fractions.
- Not simplifying the final answer when possible.
