Multiplying and Dividing Fractions

Front

What is the process for multiplying fractions?

Back

To multiply fractions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together. For example, (a/b) x (c/d) = (a*c)/(b*d).

Front

How do you convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?

Back

To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place that result over the original denominator. For example, 3 1/2 = (3*2 + 1)/2 = 7/2.

Front

What is the process for dividing fractions?

Back

To divide fractions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor. For example, (a/b) ÷ (c/d) = (a/b) x (d/c).

Front

How do you simplify a fraction?

Back

To simplify a fraction, divide the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD).

Front

What is a reciprocal?

Back

A reciprocal of a number is 1 divided by that number. For a fraction a/b, the reciprocal is b/a.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest multiple that is common to the denominators of two or more fractions.

Front

How do you add fractions with different denominators?

Back

To add fractions with different denominators, first find the least common denominator (LCD), convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD, and then add the numerators.

Front

What is the difference between a proper fraction and an improper fraction?

Back

A proper fraction has a numerator smaller than its denominator (e.g., 3/4), while an improper fraction has a numerator that is equal to or larger than its denominator (e.g., 5/4).

Front

How do you convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?

Back

To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number, and the remainder is the new numerator over the original denominator.

Front

What is the result of multiplying a whole number by a fraction?

Back

To multiply a whole number by a fraction, convert the whole number to a fraction (by placing it over 1) and then multiply the numerators and denominators.