Fraction operations explained
Addition and subtraction
To add or subtract fractions, first find a common denominator using the least common multiple (LCM). For example: 1/4 + 1/6. The LCM of 4 and 6 is 12, so we get 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12.
Multiplication
Multiply numerators together and denominators together. Example: 2/3 x 4/5 = (2x4)/(3x5) = 8/15. No common denominator is needed.
Division
Dividing by a fraction means multiplying by its reciprocal. Example: 3/4 / 2/5 = 3/4 x 5/2 = 15/8.
Simplification
After each operation, simplify the result by dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For instance, 8/12 simplifiés to 2/3 because the GCD of 8 and 12 is 4.