Compare and Order Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
Concept

Common Denominator

A common denominator is a denominator that is shared between two or more fractions. Consider a few examples.
Pair of Fractions Common Denominator
and
and
and
Fractions can always be rewritten to all have a common denominator. This process requires writing equivalent fractions by expanding or simplifying the fractions. As an example, take a look at a pair of fractions with different denominators.
These fractions are in their simplest form, which means that they can only be expanded. Write the multiples of their denominators, and to find the factor of expansion.
There are two potential common denominators in these lists. Expand the first fraction by and the second fraction by to make them have a common denominator of
Now the fractions share a common denominator.
Exercises