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Fractions

Let's review some basic functions as well as some basic operations with fractions. 

Understanding Fractions

A fraction is part of an entire object. A fraction is always a rational number. We call the top number the numerator; it is the number of parts you have. We call the bottom number the denominator; it is the number of parts the whole is divided into. There are three different types of fractions; proper, improper, and mixed fractions. The following is a table which provides a brief explanation and example of each:
Type of Fraction Definition Example
Proper The numerator is less than the denominator 5/8  or  11/22
Improper The numerator is greater than (or equal to) the denominator 12/7  or  8/8
Mixed A whole number and proper fraction together 1 1/3  or  2 1/4

Converting Fractions

Since a mixed fraction is just a whole number and a fraction combined into one "mixed" number, you can use either an improper fraction or a mixed fraction to show the same amount. To convert an improper fraction to a mixed fraction, follow these steps:
  • Divide the numerator by the denominator.
  • Write down the whole number answer.
  • Then write down any remainder above the denominator

Example: Convert the improper fraction 7/4 to a mixed fraction.

Solution: 

Divide the numerator by the denominator 7÷4 = 1 with a remainder of 3.

So we write down the 1 as a whole number and then write down the remainder (3) above the denominator (4), like this: 1 3/4

To convert from a mixed fraction to an improper fraction, follow these steps:

  • Multiply the whole number part by the fraction denominator,
  • Add that to the numerator,
  • Then write the result on top of the denominator.

Example: Convert the mixed fraction 5 6/7 to an improper fraction.

Solution:

Multiply the whole number by the denominator: 5 x 7= 35

Add the numerator to that: 35 + 6 = 41

Then write that down above the deonominator (7), like this: 41/7

Equivalent Fractions

Before doing operations with fractions one must understand equivalent fractions. For example, these fractions are really all the same:

1/3 = 2/6 = 3/9

They are all the same because any time you multiply or divide both the numerator and denominator by the same number, the fraction keeps its value. For example, 1/7 x 2/2 = 2/14 means that 1/7 = 2/14. For equivalent fractions, always remember that what you do to the numerator, you must do to the denominator. This process will help you in understanding how to obtain a common denominator for two fractions.