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Chapter 2
Multiplying andDividing Fractions
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2.3
Simplest Form of aFraction
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Writing Fractions in Simplest Form
Fractions that represent the same portion of a whole arecalled equivalent fractions.
There are many equivalent forms of a fraction. A specialform of a fraction is called simplest form.
Simplest Form of a Fraction
A fraction is written in simplest form or lowest terms whenthe numerator and denominator have no common factorsother than 1.
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Examples
Write in simplest form.
a.
b.
c.
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Simplest Form
Writing a Fraction in Simplest Form
To write a fraction in simplest form, write the primefactorization of the numerator and the denominator andthen divide both by all common factors.
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Copyright © 2011 Pearson Education, Inc. Publishing as Prentice Hall.
Examples
Write in simplest form.
a.
b.
c.
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Example
Determine whether are equivalent.
Simplify each fraction.
Since both of the simplifiedfractions are the same, theyare equivalent.
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Equality of Fractions
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Example
Determine whether are equivalent by crossmultiplying.
Since 22 ≠20, then
