Questions: Add the rational numbers. Express the sum as a rational number in lowest terms. -3/8 + 1/14 -3/8 + 1/14 = (Type an integer or a simplified fraction.)

Solution Steps

The denominators are $8$ and $14$. The least common denominator (LCD) of $8$ and $14$ is $56$.

Rewrite $-\frac{3}{8}$ and $\frac{1}{14}$ with the denominator $56$: $$-\frac{3}{8} = -\frac{3 \times 7}{8 \times 7} = -\frac{21}{56}$$ $$\frac{1}{14} = \frac{1 \times 4}{14 \times 4} = \frac{4}{56}$$

Add the rewritten fractions: $$-\frac{21}{56} + \frac{4}{56} = \frac{-21 + 4}{56} = \frac{-17}{56}$$

The fraction $\frac{-17}{56}$ is already in its lowest terms since $17$ and $56$ have no common factors other than $1$.

Final Answer