ORN - Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers Lesson

Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers

In this lesson, you will review fraction and mixed number multiplication as you learn to apply this skill to real life situations involving both positive and negative rational numbers. Have you ever mixed ingredients for a recipe? Fractions are a normal part of the ingredients. What if you had to double the recipe, or cut it in half? Multiplying fractions is necessary for this type of purpose.

To multiply fractions, it is simple. Just multiply the numerators, multiply the denominators, then simplify!

Example: $LaTeX: -\frac{3}{5}\cdot-\frac{1}{4}$ $-\frac{3}{5}\cdot-\frac{1}{4}$ equation image indicator Multiply 3 * 1 and Multiply $LaTeX: 5\ast4=\frac{3}{20}$ $5\ast4=\frac{3}{20}$

You can also look for common factors and simplify BEFORE you multiply! Check out the example below to see how this works!

1/6 * 6/9 = 1*6 / 6*9 (both 6 replaced with 1) = 1/9

Before you can multiply mixed numbers, you must convert them into improper fractions. One common method is called the Texas Method, which just stands for TX, meaning you have two operations required - you must use addition and multiplication. If you were to convert equation image indicator $LaTeX: 4\frac{1}{2}$ $4\frac{1}{2}$ to an improper fraction, you would work clockwise and multiply the denominator by the whole number, then add that total to the numerator. Therefore, $LaTeX: 4\cdot2+1=9$ $4\cdot2+1=9$ . The denominator does not change, so you have equation image indicator $LaTeX: \frac{9}{2}$ $\frac{9}{2}$ .

Please remember to turn a whole number into a fraction with a denominator of 1 before multiplying. A common error is to multiply the whole number by the mixed number and just keep the fraction. You must always turn mixed numbers into improper fractions when multiplying it with any number.

Take a look at this video for an example of multiplying fractions by whole numbers:

Now, check out this example of mixed number multiplication!

Click here for a clearer version of the video. Links to an external site.

Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers Homework

Now that you have spent some time learning about multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers, you are ready to complete your Integers and Rational Numbers: Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers Homework. Download your homework by CLICKING HERE Links to an external site..

Once you have completed your homework, AND MAKE SURE YOU ATTEMPTED AND WORKED THE PROBLEMS OUT ON YOUR OWN, click here to download your homework key Links to an external site..

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