Multiplying and Dividing fractions

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole and consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).

Front

How do you multiply fractions?

Back

To multiply fractions, multiply the numerators together and the denominators together. Simplify if necessary.

Front

What is the process for dividing fractions?

Back

To divide fractions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor. That is, flip the second fraction and then multiply.

Front

What is the reciprocal of a fraction?

Back

The reciprocal of a fraction is obtained by swapping its numerator and denominator.

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 over the original denominator.

Front

What is the simplest form of a fraction?

Back

A fraction is in simplest form when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1.

Front

How do you find a common denominator for adding or subtracting fractions?

Back

To find a common denominator, identify the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators.

Front

What is the least common multiple (LCM)?

Back

The least common multiple is the smallest multiple that is exactly divisible by each of the numbers.

Front

How do you solve application problems involving fractions?

Back

Read the problem carefully, identify the fractions involved, determine the operation needed (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division), and solve step by step.

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.