Multiply Fractions By Whole Numbers

Fraction Multiplication Formula:

\[ \frac{a}{b} \times c = \frac{a \times c}{b} \]

Result:

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1. What is Fraction Multiplication?

Multiplying a fraction by a whole number is a fundamental arithmetic operation that scales the fraction by the whole number. The operation follows the rule: \(\frac{a}{b} \times c = \frac{a \times c}{b}\).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fraction multiplication formula:

\[ \frac{a}{b} \times c = \frac{a \times c}{b} \]

Where:

\( a \) — Numerator of the fraction
\( b \) — Denominator of the fraction
\( c \) — Whole number to multiply by

Explanation: The calculator multiplies the numerator by the whole number while keeping the denominator the same, then simplifies the resulting fraction if possible.

3. Importance of Fraction Multiplication

Details: Understanding how to multiply fractions by whole numbers is essential for scaling recipes, calculating proportions, and solving real-world problems involving parts of wholes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the numerator and denominator of your fraction, and the whole number you want to multiply by. The denominator must be a positive integer.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I multiply a whole number by a fraction?
A: Yes, multiplication is commutative, so \( c \times \frac{a}{b} \) gives the same result as \( \frac{a}{b} \times c \).

Q2: What if my denominator is 1?
A: Then you're effectively multiplying two whole numbers, as any number divided by 1 is itself.

Q3: How does simplification work?
A: The calculator finds the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and divides both by it.

Q4: What if I get an improper fraction?
A: That's fine! An improper fraction (where numerator ≥ denominator) can be converted to a mixed number if desired.

Q5: Can I use negative numbers?
A: Yes, but only one negative sign (either in numerator or whole number) to represent a negative result.