Adding Fractions Math Example 4

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 4

hard
Three tanks contain 58\frac{5}{8}, 34\frac{3}{4}, and 13\frac{1}{3} of their capacity in water. If each tank has a capacity of 120120 litres, how many total litres of water are in all three tanks?

Solution

  1. 1
    Find the total fractional amount: 58+34+13\frac{5}{8} + \frac{3}{4} + \frac{1}{3}. LCD of 8,4,38, 4, 3 is 2424.
  2. 2
    Convert: 58=1524\frac{5}{8} = \frac{15}{24}, 34=1824\frac{3}{4} = \frac{18}{24}, 13=824\frac{1}{3} = \frac{8}{24}.
  3. 3
    Add fractions: 15+18+824=4124=11724\frac{15 + 18 + 8}{24} = \frac{41}{24} = 1\frac{17}{24}.
  4. 4
    Total water in litres: 4124Γ—120=41Γ—12024=492024=205\frac{41}{24} \times 120 = \frac{41 \times 120}{24} = \frac{4920}{24} = 205 litres.

Answer

205Β litres205 \text{ litres}
This problem chains fraction addition with a fraction-of-a-number calculation. First find the total fractional amount, then multiply by the tank capacity. The LCD step ensures all fractions can be added in a single expression.

About Adding Fractions

Adding fractions combines parts of a whole by rewriting both with a common denominator and then adding the numerators.

Learn more about Adding Fractions β†’

More Adding Fractions Examples