Division of ordinary fractions

In this publication, we will look at how an ordinary (simple) fraction can be divided by a number or another fraction, and how to find the quotient of dividing mixed fractions. We will also analyze examples of solving problems for a better understanding and consolidation of theoretical material.

Content

Fraction division

On a number

The result of dividing a common fraction by a number n is a fraction whose denominator is equal to the product of the denominator of the original fraction and this number n. The numerator remains the same.

a/b

: n =

a/b ⋅ n

 

Note: after performing the division, do not forget to check if a new fraction is possible.

For another fraction

To divide one fraction into another, we flip the divisor (replace the numerator and denominator) and multiply it by the dividend, which we leave unchanged.

a/b

:

c/d

=

a/b

d/c

=

a ⋅ d/b ⋅ c

Division of mixed fractions

To find the quotient of mixed fractions, first you need to represent them in the form, and only after that perform the division.

X
a/b

 : Y

c/d

 = 

X ⋅ b + a/b

 : 

Y ⋅ d + c/d

 = 

X ⋅ b + a/b

  

d/Y ⋅ d + c

 = 

(X ⋅ b + a) ⋅ d/(Y ⋅ d + c) ⋅ b

Examples of tasks

Task 1

Divide a fraction 
5/6

 to the number 5.

 

Solution

5/6

: 5 =

5/6⋅5

=

5/30

=

1/6

 

Task 2

Divide a fraction 
4/15

 on 

2/9

.

 

Solution

4/15

:

2/9

=

4/15

9/2

=

4⋅9/15⋅2

=

36/30

=

6/5

= 1

1/5

 

Task 3

Find the quotient of the fraction 6

1/4

 for fraction 4

2/3

.

 

Solution

Because mixed fractions are given, first we write them in the form of improper ones, then we perform the required action.

6
1/4

: 4

2/3

=

6⋅4+1/4

:

4⋅3+2/3

=

25/4

:

14/3

=

25/4

3/14

=

25⋅3/4⋅14

=

75/56

=1

19/56

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