Rule 24: Complex Fractions

To manipulate complex fractions, just convert them to simple fractions and follow rules 1 through 23 for simple fractions.

Example:
Convert tex2html_wrap_inline50 to a simple fraction and reduce.
Answer:
tex2html_wrap_inline50 can be written tex2html_wrap_inline54 . Write 3 as the fraction tex2html_wrap_inline56 . Now tex2html_wrap_inline54 can be written tex2html_wrap_inline60 . Convert the problem to multiplication by changing the division sign to multiplication and inverting the fraction to the right of the sign. tex2html_wrap_inline60 can now be written tex2html_wrap_inline64 and tex2html_wrap_inline66 . Check your answer with your calculator. Divide 3 by .5 and your answer should be 6. You have just converted a complex fraction to a simple fraction.

If you want to review another example, click on the word Example.
Work the following problems and click on Answer if you want to check the answer and review the solution.

Problem 1:
Simplify tex2html_wrap_inline68 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 2:
Simplify tex2html_wrap_inline70 .

Answer

Problem 3:
Simplify tex2html_wrap_inline72

Answer

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