Multiply and Divide 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. For example, \( \frac{a}{b} \times \frac{c}{d} = \frac{a \times c}{b \times d} \).

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 \( \frac{a}{b} \) is \( \frac{b}{a} \).

Front

How do you divide fractions?

Back

To divide fractions, multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor. For example, \( \frac{a}{b} \div \frac{c}{d} = \frac{a}{b} \times \frac{d}{c} \).

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction, such as \( 2 \frac{1}{2} \).

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 and add the numerator. For example, \( 2 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{2 \times 2 + 1}{2} = \frac{5}{2} \).

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest multiple that two or more denominators share. It is used to add or subtract fractions.

Front

How do you simplify a fraction?

Back

To simplify a fraction, divide the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF).

Front

What is the greatest common factor (GCF)?

Back

The greatest common factor is the largest number that divides two or more numbers without leaving a remainder.

Front

What does it mean to multiply a fraction by a whole number?

Back

To multiply a fraction by a whole number, multiply the numerator by the whole number and keep the same denominator. For example, \( 3 \times \frac{2}{5} = \frac{3 \times 2}{5} = \frac{6}{5} \).