How to Multiply Fractions
Understanding how to multiply fractions is a fundamental skill in mathematics. Mastering this operation will enable you to solve various mathematical problems involving fractions. Let's explore the step-by-step process of multiplying fractions with examples of different difficulty levels.
Multiplying Fractions:
Step 1: Multiply Numerators and Denominators
To multiply fractions, simply multiply the numerators together and multiply the denominators together.
Example 1:
Multiply 2/3 by 5/7.
Step 1: Multiply the numerators and denominators.
Numerators: \(2 \times 5 = 10\)
Denominators: \(3 \times 7 = 21\)
Therefore, \(2/3 \times 5/7 = 10/21\).
Complex Multiplication:
Example 2:
Multiply 3/4 by 5/6 by 2/5.
Step 1: Multiply the numerators and denominators together.
Numerators: \(3 \times 5 \times 2 = 30\)
Denominators: \(4 \times 6 \times 5 = 120\)
Therefore, \(3/4 \times 5/6 \times 2/5 = 30/120\).
Simplify the result: \(30/120\) simplifies to \(1/4\).
Therefore, \(3/4 \times 5/6 \times 2/5 = 1/4\).
Practice Makes Perfect:
Practicing multiplication of fractions with various examples will solidify your understanding of this operation. Remember to simplify the results to their simplest form.
With consistent practice, you'll gain confidence in multiplying fractions, making mathematical problem-solving involving fractions much more manageable.
