Rule 11: Multiplying Simple Fractions

To multiply two simple fractions, complete the following steps.

1.
Multiply the numerators.
2.
Multiply the denominators.
3.
Reduce the results. (See Rule 10)
a.
Factor the product of the numerators.
b.
Factor the product of the denominators.
c.
Look for the fractions that have a value of 1.

Example : Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline99 .

Answer. Multiply the numerators and the denominators, but leave them in factored form tex2html_wrap_inline101 .

Factor the numerator and denominator and look for the fractions that have a value of 1.

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Now prove to yourself with your calculator that your answer is correct. Calculate the answers to 3 divided by 4 and 8 divided by 9 and multiply the two answers. Now calculate 2 divided by 3. If you are correct, the answers are the same (equivalent) and you have successfully multiplied two simple fractions.

If you are interested in reviewing another example, click on the word Example .

Work the following problems and click on Answer to check your results.

Problem 1: Reduce the fraction tex2html_wrap_inline105 .

Answer

Problem 2: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline107 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 3: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline109 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 4: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline111 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 5: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline113 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 6: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline115 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 7: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline117 and reduce the answer.

Answer

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