Question

1. add or subtract the mixed numbers. 2\frac{1}{2}+3\frac{1}{8}

5\frac{3}{8}
5\frac{5}{8}
5\frac{3}{4}
6\frac{1}{16}

Explanation:

Step1: Separate whole - and fraction - parts

Separate the whole numbers and fractions: $(2 + \frac{1}{2})+(3+\frac{1}{8})=(2 + 3)+(\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{8})$.

Step2: Add whole numbers

$2 + 3=5$.

Step3: Find common denominator for fractions

The common denominator of 2 and 8 is 8. Rewrite $\frac{1}{2}$ as $\frac{4}{8}$ (since $\frac{1\times4}{2\times4}=\frac{4}{8}$). Then $\frac{1}{2}+\frac{1}{8}=\frac{4}{8}+\frac{1}{8}$.

Step4: Add fractions

$\frac{4}{8}+\frac{1}{8}=\frac{4 + 1}{8}=\frac{5}{8}$.

Step5: Combine results

Combine the sum of whole numbers and the sum of fractions: $5+\frac{5}{8}=5\frac{5}{8}$.

Answer:

$5\frac{5}{8}$