Simplification

Simplification

When we work any fraction, we always need to check to make sure that it can be reduced to the lowest number. Remember two different things as we look at the answer. Not every fraction can be reduced any lower. Next reducing fractions to a lower form at times can be time consuming, especially just learning how to do it. 

The easiest simplification we will ever work is when the numbers are the same on the top and bottom or you should know by now is when the numerator and denominator ae the same. When the numbers are the same on top and bottom, it will always be 1. 

Multiple Choice

Samples

• $\frac{8}{8}=1$

• $\frac{125}{125}=1$

Proper Fractions 

Next, reducing fractions to its simplest form. You can choose two different ways. There is the long way or the shorter way. I will tell you to always pick the way that gives you the best chance on learning how to be efficient, learn the material, and pass by learning the material. 

Multiple Choice

Examples

• $\frac{8}{12}=\frac{2}{3}$ We can take 4 from the top and bottom to reduce the fraction to its lowest form.

• $\frac{16}{24}=\frac{2}{3}$ We could take 8 from top and bottom to reduce to the fraction to its lowest form.

Improper Fractions 

Now let’s talk about when the numerator is larger than the denominator… ( remember the numerator is the top number of the fraction and the denominator is bottom number).

Multiple Choice

Lets take a look an example of

 $\frac{49}{45}$  

• first thing we do is we divide   $45\sqrt{49}$  

• as we can see 45 can go into 49, only 1 time. So remember we put the 1 on top of the 49.

• next we subtract..  $49-45=4$  

• now we see we have a remainder of 4 and now we put it numbers to get for our fraction. The 1 on top will be our whole number and we move our 45 below our 4 for  $1\ \frac{4}{45}$