Multiplying Rational Numbers

A rational number is any number that can be expressed as the quotient or fraction of two integers, where the denominator is not zero.

To multiply two rational numbers, multiply their numerators together and their denominators together. Then simplify the result if possible.

The product of 1 and any rational number is the rational number itself.

When you multiply two negative rational numbers, the product is positive.

When you multiply a positive rational number by a negative rational number, the product is negative.

The simplest form of a fraction is when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1.

To convert a decimal to a fraction, write the decimal as a fraction with a denominator of 10, 100, etc., depending on the number of decimal places, and then simplify.

The product of 2.5 and 4 is 10.

To determine the location of the decimal point in a product, count the total number of decimal places in the factors and place the decimal point in the product accordingly.

The product of -3 and 4 is -12.