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3 simple ways on how to divide fractions

Dividing fractions is a simple mathematical operation that involves dividing one fraction by another.

Introduction

Dividing fractions is a simple mathematical operation that involves dividing one fraction by another.

How to divide fractions

Here are the steps to follow when dividing fractions:

Step 1: Invert the second fraction

To divide two fractions, you need to invert the second fraction (the one you are dividing by) and multiply it by the first fraction.

Step 2: Multiply the fractions

Multiply the first fraction by the inverted second fraction. The numerator of the first fraction becomes the numerator of the answer, and the numerator of the second fraction becomes the answer’s denominator.

Step 3: Simplify the answer

If necessary, simplify the answer by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.

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Examples

Example 1:

Let’s take an example: To divide 1/2 by 1/3, we first invert the second fraction, 1/3, to get 3/1. Then, we multiply the two fractions: 1/2 x 3/1 = 3/2. Finally, we simplify the answer if necessary; in this case, it is already simplified.

Example 2:

It’s also possible to divide a fraction by a whole number. To do this, treat the whole number as a fraction with a denominator of 1. For example, to divide 1/2 by 3, we would write 1/2 ÷ 3/1 = 1/2 x 1/3 = 1/6.

Summary

It’s important to remember that when dividing fractions, you must invert the second fraction and multiply, not divide. This is because the division is the same as multiplying by the reciprocal. The reciprocal of a fraction is simply the inverted fraction, so multiplying by the reciprocal is the same as dividing by the original fraction.

Conclusion

Dividing fractions is a simple operation that involves inverting the second fraction, multiplying the two fractions, and simplifying the answer if necessary. Following these steps, you can easily divide fractions and arrive at the correct answer.

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