Reducing Fractions: Example

Rule 10:
To reduce a simple fraction, follow the following three steps:

1.: Factor the numerator.
2.: Factor the denominator.
3.: Find the fraction mix that equals 1.

Example: Reduce the fraction .

Answer. Factor the numerator and factor the denominator and look for the fractions in the mix that have a value of 1.

The fraction has been reduced into the equivalent fraction which can also be written as or .

Now prove to yourself with your calculator that both fractions are equivalent. When you divided -42 by 50, you will get the same answer as when you divide -21 by 25.

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Author: Nancy Marcus