Fractions on a Number Line

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number). For example, 1/2 means one part out of two equal parts.

The numerator is the top number in a fraction. It represents how many parts of the whole are being considered.

The denominator is the bottom number in a fraction. It indicates the total number of equal parts the whole is divided into.

To represent 1/4 on a number line, divide the segment between 0 and 1 into 4 equal parts. The first mark after 0 is 1/4.

Equivalent fractions are different fractions that represent the same value. For example, 1/2 is equivalent to 2/4.

To find equivalent fractions, multiply or divide the numerator and denominator by the same non-zero number. For example, multiplying 1/2 by 2 gives 2/4.

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

To add fractions with the same denominator, add the numerators and keep the denominator the same. For example, 1/4 + 2/4 = (1+2)/4 = 3/4.

To subtract fractions with the same denominator, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same. For example, 3/4 - 1/4 = (3-1)/4 = 2/4.

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction. For example, 1 1/2 is a mixed number.