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How to Solve Dividing Two Fractions With Variables Attached

Calculating the division of fractions is a task can be intimidating, especially if the fractions contain variables. Fractions are figures that represent the relationship of a part to a whole. Variables are letters that represent numerical values. Dividing fractions with variables attached doesn't have to be a difficult assignment once you understand the basic rules involved. You may be required to divide fractions containing variables as an assignment within a high school or college algebra course.

Instructions

    • 1

      Write the division sentence. For example, you might have (6x/9y) / (2x/3y).

    • 2

      Flip the divisor to create a reciprocal. In this example, 2x/3y is the divisor. You would flip this fraction to make it 3y/2x.

    • 3

      Create a multiplication sentence using the reciprocal. In this example, you would write (6x/9y) * (3y/2x). This method of changing a division sentence to a multiplication sentence in which the dividend is multiplied times the divisor's reciprocal can be employed in any type of division

    • 4

      Multiply the numerators and the denominators. Write a single fraction illustrating the multiplication: (6x)(3y) / (9y)(2x).

    • 5

      Simplify the fraction if possible. Because 2x will fit into 6x three times and into itself once, you can simplify this part of the fraction to 3 (3y) / 9y (1). Then 3y will fit into 9y three times and into itself once, creating 3 (1) / 3 (1). Three times 1 on the numerator and denominator is 3/3, which simplifies to 1.

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