Fractions show a number in relation to how many parts there are. They are mostly used to show a number smaller than 1. However, whole numbers can be expressed as fractions as well. You can easily use fractions on most new calculators. However, you should still understand how they work.
A Fraction is expressed as: numerator / denominator
- Addition
You have to have a common denominator to add fractions.
1/3 + 2/5 = 5/15 + 6/15 = 11/15
- Subtraction
Same method as with addition.
1/2 - 1/3 = 3/6 - 2/6 = 1/6
- Multiplication
Here you just multiply the numerators together and the denominators together.
1/4 × 1 1/2 = 1/4 × 3/2 = 3/8
- Division
To do this you have to turn the divisor upside down. Then you multiply.
2 1/4 ÷ 1/4 = 9/4 ÷ 1/4 = 9/4 × 4/1 = 36/4 = 9
