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How to Solve Equivalent Fractions

To solve a problem with equivalent fractions, you must first understand that the fractions within the problem will represent the same mathematical value. For example, 1/2 and 2/4 are both equivalent fractions. If you were to think of the fractions as a picture or parts of a pie, both fractions would fill the same portion of the image. Problems expecting you to solve for a set of equivalent fractions will be set up using an equal sign and you will use cross-multiplication and division to solve for the unknown fraction.

Instructions

    • 1

      Read the following problem: "Find an equivalent fraction for 4/9 with a denominator of 36."

    • 2

      Write an equation with the facts from the word problem, setting the fraction 4/9 equal to a fraction with x as the unknown numerator and 36 as the denominator: 4/9 = x/36.

    • 3

      Cross-multiply the fractions and set the products equal to each other: 144 = 9x.

    • 4

      Divide both sides of the equation by 9 to isolate the variable: 144 ÷ 9 = 16 and 9x ÷ 9 = x. Therefore, x = 16, meaning that the second numerator is 16. The set of equivalent fractions are 4/9 = 16/36. To double check your answer, you know that 9 times 4 equals 36, so if you multiply 4 times 4, you have the product 16, making it a true statement.

    • 5

      Read the following problem: "Find an equivalent fraction for 18/33 with a numerator of 6." Set up an equation with the facts from the word problem: 18/33 = 6/x.

    • 6

      Cross-multiply the fractions and set the products equal to each other: 18x = 198.

    • 7

      Divide both sides of the equation by 18: x = 11. As a result, 18/33 = 6/11.

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