Multiplying Simple Fractions

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Example 1 Simple Fraction Multiplication without Cancelling

1		1		1
---	x	---	=	---
2		2		4

Multiplying fractions is simple. Just multiply the top numbers (numerators) of the fractions together, and multiply the bottom numbers (denominators) together. Then reduce the fraction answer if necessary.

Example 2 Simple Fraction Multiplication with Reducing

1		6		6
---	x	---	=	---
2		7		14

Then reduce your answer:

6	/	2		3
---		---	=	---
14	/	2		7

Therefore after reducing:

6		3
---	=	---
14		7

The answer in simplest form is 3/7.

You could also use cancellation by the following method:

1		6
---	x	---	=	---
2		7

Cancel the 2 of the first denominator and 2 into the second numerator. The result is:

1		6/2		3
---	x	---	=	---
2/2		7		7

1		3		3
---	x	---	=	---
1		7		7

The final answer is also 3/7. Instead of redcuing when finished multiplying, you can cancel before multiplying.