How to: Multiple Rational Fractions

Rational numbers can be expressed as fractions; conversely, any fraction is a rational number unless its denominator (bottom number) is 0, if there is an unsimplified square root sign anywhere in the fraction (either over the denominator, numerator or the whole fraction) or if there is a decimal in the numerator or denominator. Otherwise, if the fraction has whole numbers in both the numerator and denominator, it is a rational fraction and thus can be multiplied with another fraction.

Instructions

    • 1

      Simplify the individual fractions before multiplying them together. Because a fraction is a ratio of numbers, you should make them as small as possible before doing any operations with them. For example, if multiplying 8/12 and 3/6, you should simplify 8/12 to 2/3 and 3/6 to 1/2.

    • 2

      Multiply the numerators together to get the numerator for the product; then multiply the denominators together to get the denominator for the product. So 2/3 multiplied by 1/2 becomes 2/6.

    • 3

      Simplify the product. Divide the numerator and denominator by the greatest common factor. So divide 2 by 2 and 6 by 2 to obtain 1/3.

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