What is how to multiply fractions?
Multiplying fractions is the process of multiplying the numerators and denominators of two or more fractions to get a single fraction that represents their product. This is a basic arithmetic operation that is essential in many fields, including mathematics, science, engineering, and finance.
How to Multiply Fractions: Step-by-Step Guide
Multiplying fractions can seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
If you’re dealing with mixed numbers, you need to convert them to improper fractions before you can multiply them. To do this, multiply the whole number by the denominator, and then add the numerator. The result should be the new numerator, with the same denominator. For example, if you want to multiply 2 1/3 and 3/4, you need to convert 2 1/3 to an improper fraction: 2 1/3 = (2 × 3 + 1) / 3 = 7/3 Now you have two fractions: 7/3 and 3/4.
Step 2: Multiply the Numerators
To multiply the fractions, simply multiply the numerators (top numbers) of each fraction together. 7/3 × 3/4 = 21/12
Step 3: Simplify the Fraction
To simplify the fraction, you need to find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator, and then divide both by it. In this case, the GCF of 21 and 12 is 3, so you divide both by 3: 21/12 ÷ 3/3 = 7/4 So the product of 2 1/3 and 3/4 is 7/4.
FAQs about How to Multiply Fractions
Q: What if the denominators are different?
A: If the denominators are different, you need to find a common denominator before you can multiply the fractions. To do this, find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, and then multiply each fraction by a factor that makes its denominator equal to the LCM.
Q: What if one of the fractions is negative?
A: If one of the fractions is negative, you can ignore the negative sign and treat it as a positive fraction. However, if both fractions are negative, you need to multiply them as positive fractions and then add a negative sign to the result.
Q: What if one of the fractions is a whole number?
A: If one of the fractions is a whole number, you can convert it to a fraction by putting it over a denominator of 1. For example, 3 can be written as 3/1. Then you can multiply it with the other fraction as usual.
