Math: Fractions Fundamentals

What does the numerator of a fraction represent?

The numerator represents the number of parts being considered or counted out of the whole.

What does the denominator of a fraction represent?

The denominator represents the total number of equal parts that make up the whole.

What defines an improper fraction?

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

How do you multiply two fractions together?

To multiply two fractions, multiply the numerators together to get the new numerator, and multiply the denominators together to get the new denominator.

What is the reciprocal of a fraction?

The reciprocal of a fraction is created by swapping its numerator and denominator, so the product of the original fraction and its reciprocal is 1.

How do you add fractions that have the same (like) denominators?

To add fractions with like denominators, add the numerators together and keep the denominator exactly the same.

How do you create an equivalent fraction?

An equivalent fraction is created by multiplying or dividing both the numerator and the denominator by the same non-zero number.

What is the process for simplifying a fraction to its lowest terms?

To simplify a fraction to its lowest terms, find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator, and divide both by that number.

Why is it necessary to find a common denominator before adding or subtracting fractions?

A common denominator is necessary because fractions can only be added or subtracted when they represent parts of the exact same size.

What are the steps to add fractions with unlike denominators?

To add fractions with unlike denominators, first find a common denominator, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with that denominator, then add the numerators.