Dividing Fractions Word Problems

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole and is written as 'a/b', where 'a' is the numerator (part) and 'b' is the denominator (whole).

Front

How do you divide fractions?

Back

To divide fractions, multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction. For example, a/b ÷ c/d = a/b × d/c.

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a fraction, such as 2 1/2.

Front

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

Back

Multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place that over the original denominator. For example, 2 1/2 = (2*2 + 1)/2 = 5/2.

Front

What is the reciprocal of a fraction?

Back

The reciprocal of a fraction is obtained by flipping the numerator and denominator. For example, the reciprocal of 3/4 is 4/3.

Front

How do you solve a word problem involving dividing fractions?

Back

Identify the quantities involved, convert any mixed numbers to improper fractions, and apply the division of fractions method.

Front

If you have 2 1/2 pounds of beef, how do you express this as an improper fraction?

Back

2 1/2 pounds = (2*2 + 1)/2 = 5/2 pounds.

Front

What is the first step in solving the problem: How many 1/4 pound hamburgers can be made from 2 1/2 pounds of ground beef?

Back

Convert 2 1/2 pounds to an improper fraction: 2 1/2 = 5/2.

Front

How many 1/4 pound hamburgers can be made from 2 1/2 pounds of ground beef?

Back

5/2 ÷ 1/4 = 5/2 × 4/1 = 10 hamburgers.

Front

What is the total amount of dog food if each dog eats 2/5 lb and there are 75 dogs?

Back

Total food = 75 dogs × 2/5 lb/dog = 30 lb.