Multiplying fractions is straightforward! You simply multiply the numerators (top numbers) together and then multiply the denominators (bottom numbers) together.
Steps to Multiply Fractions:
- Multiply the numerators: This gives you the numerator of your answer.
- Multiply the denominators: This gives you the denominator of your answer.
- Simplify (if possible): Reduce the resulting fraction to its simplest form by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and dividing both by it.
Examples:
-
Example 1: ⅔ × ½
Following the steps:
- Numerators: 2 × 1 = 2
- Denominators: 3 × 2 = 6
- Resulting fraction: 2/6
- Simplification: 2/6 simplifies to ⅓ (dividing both numerator and denominator by 2).
-
Example 2: ⅘ × ⅞
- Numerators: 4 × 7 = 28
- Denominators: 5 × 8 = 40
- Resulting fraction: 28/40
- Simplification: 28/40 simplifies to 7/10 (dividing both by 4).
-
Example 3: ¼ × ⅖ × ⅛
- Numerators: 1 × 2 × 1 = 2
- Denominators: 4 × 5 × 8 = 160
- Resulting fraction: 2/160
- Simplification: 2/160 simplifies to 1/80 (dividing both by 2).
-
Example 4: 5 × ½
Remember, a whole number can be written as a fraction with a denominator of 1. So, 5 can be written as 5/1.
- Numerators: 5 × 1 = 5
- Denominators: 1 × 2 = 2
- Resulting fraction: 5/2
- This can also be written as a mixed number: 2 ½
Multiplying Fractions with Whole Numbers:
To multiply a fraction by a whole number, simply write the whole number as a fraction (over 1) and follow the steps above.
These examples demonstrate the basic process of multiplying fractions, a crucial skill for Class 5 math. Remember to always simplify your answer to its lowest terms!