1. What is This Calculator For?

This calculator performs basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) on fractions that may include negative values. It handles both positive and negative fractions and provides results in simplified form.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses standard fraction arithmetic rules:

Where:

• \( a, c \) — Numerators (can be positive or negative)
• \( b, d \) — Denominators (always positive)
• \( \pm \) — Sign of each fraction
• op — Operation (+, -, *, /)

Explanation: The calculator first applies the signs to the numerators, then performs the selected operation, and finally simplifies the result.

3. Understanding Fraction Operations

Details: The calculator follows standard arithmetic rules for fractions, including:

• Addition/Subtraction: Find common denominator
• Multiplication: Multiply numerators and denominators
• Division: Multiply by reciprocal
• Always simplifies the final result

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter numerators and denominators (denominators must be positive)
• Select the sign for each fraction
• Choose the operation to perform
• The result will be shown in simplest form with its sign

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I enter negative denominators?
A: No, denominators must be positive integers. The sign is selected separately.

Q2: What if the result is a whole number?
A: The calculator will display it as an integer (e.g., +2 instead of +2/1).

Q3: How does the calculator handle division by zero?
A: The calculator prevents division by zero by requiring positive denominators.

Q4: What's the maximum size of numbers I can enter?
A: The calculator can handle reasonably large numbers, but extremely large values may cause calculation issues.

Q5: How is the fraction simplified?
A: The calculator uses the greatest common divisor (GCD) to reduce the fraction to its simplest form.