Understanding Fraction Operations
Fractions represent parts of a whole. Performing arithmetic on them requires specific rules. This calculator simplifies the process and provides step-by-step solutions to help you understand the underlying methods.
Addition and Subtraction
To add or subtract fractions, they must have a common denominator. If the denominators are different, find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with this common denominator, then add or subtract the numerators.
Multiplication
Multiplying fractions is straightforward: multiply the numerators together to get the new numerator, and multiply the denominators together to get the new denominator. The resulting fraction can then be simplified if necessary.
Division
To divide one fraction by another, you invert the second fraction (find its reciprocal) and then multiply the first fraction by it. This is often remembered by the phrase "keep, change, flip".