EDEXCEL GCSE FOUNDATION MATHS - What is Multiplying Fractions

Multiplying Fractions

Multiplying fractions is a straightforward process once you understand the steps involved.

Understanding the Basics

• Numerator: The top number of a fraction.
• Denominator: The bottom number of a fraction.
• Multiplying Fractions: When multiplying fractions, we multiply the numerators together and the denominators together.

Steps to Multiply Fractions:

1. Multiply the numerators: Multiply the top numbers of each fraction.
2. Multiply the denominators: Multiply the bottom numbers of each fraction.
3. Simplify (if possible): If the resulting fraction can be simplified (reduced to a smaller equivalent fraction), do so.

Example:

Multiply the fractions: 1/2 * 3/4

1. Multiply the numerators: 1 * 3 = 3
2. Multiply the denominators: 2 * 4 = 8
3. Result: 3/8

Simplifying Fractions

To simplify a fraction, find the greatest common factor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator, and divide both by it.

Example:

Simplify the fraction 6/8.

• The GCD of 6 and 8 is 2.
• Divide both numerator and denominator by 2: 6/2 = 3 and 8/2 = 4.
• The simplified fraction is 3/4.

Practice Problems:

1. 2/3 * 1/5
2. 4/7 * 3/8
3. 5/6 * 2/5

Answers:

1. 2/15
2. 3/14
3. 1/3

Key Points:

• Remember to multiply numerators and denominators separately.
• Simplify the resulting fraction if possible.
• Practice multiplying fractions regularly to solidify your understanding.