Simplified: 9 2/3
Step-by-step explanation:
Convert the mixed numbers into improper fractions
To do this, multiply the denominator by the whole number and add the numerator: (denominator × whole number + numerator)/denoninator
First fraction:
5 11/12
(12 × 5 + 11)/12
(60 + 11)/12
71/12
Next fraction:
3 9/12
(12 × 3 + 9)/12
(36 + 9)/12
45/12
Substitute these fractions in the original problem now:
71/12 + 45/12
Add the numerators only. The denominators stay the same.
(71 + 45)/12
116/12
Now that the calculations are done, convert this back into a whole number
How many times does 12 fit into 116 equally? If you answered 9 times, then you are correct. This 9 will sit as the whole number in the fraction
12 × 9 = 108
This doesn't equal 116 perfectly so we must find the left over
116 - 108 = 8 left over (which is used as the numerator)
9 8/12
If your class or problem asks that you simplify your answer, then look at both the numerator and denominator to determine any common factors within them
8 and 12 both have common factors of 2 and 4
Since 4 is the bigger number, divide both 8 and 12 by 4 to simplify your answer
9 2/3
