Page 171 - ABCTE Study Guide_Neat

Multiplying fractions is actually much easier than adding and subtracting them. To multiply fractions,
multiplystraight across the numerators and straight across the denominators. Then simplify the fraction
to express it in lowest terms. That's it.

Example:

Many people find it easier to simplify the fractions before they multiply them together because it can make
the multiplication step much easier to do mentally. Any factors that are shared in both the numerator and
the denominator (even if they are not in the same fraction) can be cancelled.

Dividing Fractions

Once you are comfortable with multiplication of fractions, division is a short jump.

Division is another way to state that you have multiplied by the reciprocal of a number. The reciprocal is

the number flipped upside down, so the reciprocal of is and the reciprocal of 8 is . You can see
how this works with whole numbers:

When you divide with whole numbers, using multiplication and the reciprocal would be an unusual option
to choose. With fractions, however, it is the main option.

Review

• Remember to use a common denominator when you are adding and subtracting
fractions and mixed numbers.
• When multiplying and dividing mixed numbers, begin by changing them into improper
fractions.

Working with Powers & Exponents

Lesson Objective

This next section will help you brush up on exponents and fractional exponents. This will also be a refresher on
roots and scientific notation.

Previously Covered

In the previous section, we reviewed and practiced the basic operations with mixed numbers.