Question

Jonathan says that when you add 7 2/3 to 2 2/3, you must add the Whole numbers together first ( 7+2=9 ). Then you just add the numerators together ( 2+2=4 ), and you add the denominators Together ( 3+3=6 ). So the answer is 9 4/6.Unfortunately, Jonathan's strategy is incorrect. Solve this problem, and then briefly explain the flaw in Jonathan's reasoning.

Answer 1

we have

7 2/3 + 2 2/3

step 1

adds the whole numbers

7+2=9

step 2

Adds the fractions

2/3+2/3=(2+2)/3=4/3

Note that: when you add two fractions with the same denominator, you add the numerators and maintain the same denominator

and

4/3=3/3+1/3=1+1/3

step 3

Adds number step 1 and number step 2

so

9 +(1+1/3)=10+1/3=10 1/3

The answer is 10 1/3