1. What is Fraction Multiplication?

Multiplying a fraction by a whole number follows the same principle as multiplying two fractions. The whole number can be considered as a fraction with denominator 1. The product is obtained by multiplying the numerator with the whole number while keeping the denominator the same.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fraction multiplication formula:

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 and keeps 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 fundamental in mathematics, with applications in scaling recipes, calculating proportions, and solving real-world problems involving parts of whole numbers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the numerator and denominator of your fraction (denominator cannot be zero), and the whole number you want to multiply by. The calculator will show the product in both unsimplified and simplified forms.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I multiply a whole number by a fraction?
A: Yes, multiplication is commutative, so a × (b/c) = (b/c) × a = (a×b)/c.

Q2: What if my fraction is a mixed number?
A: Convert the mixed number to an improper fraction first before multiplying.

Q3: How do I simplify the resulting fraction?
A: Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator, then divide both by the GCD.

Q4: What if the denominator is 1 after simplification?
A: The result is a whole number, shown in the calculator's output.

Q5: Can I use negative numbers?
A: This calculator only accepts non-negative integers, but mathematically you can multiply negative numbers following the same rules.