Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) PracticeTest

Which term describes the result of adding whole numbers and fractions in mixed number addition?

1. Common difference

2. Sum of components

3. Whole and fractional components

4. Partial sums

The correct answer is: Whole and fractional components

The term "whole and fractional components" accurately describes the result of adding whole numbers and fractions when performing mixed number addition. This is because mixed numbers consist of both a whole number part and a fractional part. When you add mixed numbers together, you are essentially combining these two distinct components—the whole numbers and the fractions. In mixed number addition, it is important to handle both components separately before arriving at the final sum, which may involve converting fractions or carrying over values from the fractional part to the whole number part. Thus, the resulting value from such an addition retains its identity as having both whole and fractional components, reflecting the nature of mixed numbers. The term "common difference" refers to a specific concept in arithmetic sequences, and "partial sums" usually pertains to sums calculated at intermediate stages rather than the final result itself. "Sum of components" lacks the clarity necessary to adequately capture the essence of mixed number addition, as it does not explicitly state the presence of both whole and fractional parts. Therefore, the chosen term correctly encapsulates the structure of the result in mixed number addition.