Understanding Fraction Operations

This page covers essential concepts in fraction multiplication and division, providing clear methods for working with fractions.

Definition: The inverse of a number (when not zero) is the number that, when multiplied by the original number, gives 1 as the result.

Example: For the fraction 5/2, its inverse is 2/5, because 5/2 × 2/5 = 1

The page explains three main concepts:

1. Fraction Multiplication:

Highlight: To multiply fractions, multiply the numerators together and denominators together. No need to find common denominators.

2. Finding Number Inverses:

Vocabulary: The inverse of a fraction is found by swapping the numerator and denominator.

3. Fraction Division:

Definition: Division by a fraction is equivalent to multiplication by its inverse.

Example: To divide 3/5 ÷ 1/4:

• First step: Take 3/5
• Second step: Convert division to multiplication with inverse (4/1)
• Third step: Multiply 3/5 × 4/1 = 12/5

The page emphasizes the connection between division and multiplication, showing how understanding inverses simplifies fraction division operations.