Multiplying fractions

 

·       Simple fractions

 

1.    Multiply Top line

2.  Multiply bottom line.

3.  Top line over bottom line

4.  Simplify if you can.

 

Examples

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     If you spot that you can  simplify first:-

1.    Simplify

2.  Multiply Top line                      S M M S

3.  Multiply bottom line.

4.  Simplify again if necessary.

 

   Examples

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

·       Multiplying  Mixed number fractions

 

1.    Change from a mixed number to an improper  fraction.

2.  Simplify

3.  Multiply Top line

4.  Multiply bottom line.                    S M M S  

5.  Simplify again if necessary.

6.  Convert  back to mixed number if necessary.

 

Examples

 

 

 

 

 

·       Dividing fractions

 

 

 The inverse of a number is that number turned upside down.

 The inverse has symbol  .

 

 

  

 

 

 

     To divide a fraction, multiply it by its inverse.

1.     Turn the fraction to the right of the  ÷ sign upside down

2.   Change the ÷ sign to a x. 

3.  Multiply the fraction as normal.

 

Examples

 

 

 

 

Alternatively

 

 

     

 

 

So

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

It also works nicely with algebraic fractions: -