1. What is Fraction Multiplication?

Fraction multiplication is a mathematical operation where two fractions are multiplied by multiplying their numerators together and their denominators together. The result is a new fraction that represents the product of the two original fractions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fraction multiplication formula:

Where:

• \( a \) — First numerator
• \( b \) — First denominator (cannot be zero)
• \( c \) — Second numerator
• \( d \) — Second denominator (cannot be zero)

Explanation: The calculator first multiplies the numerators together and denominators together, then simplifies the resulting fraction by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor.

3. Importance of Fraction Multiplication

Details: Multiplying fractions is fundamental in mathematics and has applications in scaling recipes, calculating probabilities, determining areas, and solving many real-world problems involving proportions and ratios.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all four values (two numerators and two denominators). Denominators cannot be zero. The calculator will show both the raw product and simplified form if simplification is possible.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I multiply more than two fractions?
A: Yes, the same rule applies - multiply all numerators together and all denominators together, then simplify.

Q2: What if one denominator is zero?
A: Division by zero is undefined. The calculator requires all denominators to be non-zero.

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

Q4: Can I enter mixed numbers?
A: Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions first (e.g., 2½ becomes 5/2).

Q5: What about negative fractions?
A: Negative signs can be placed in either numerator or denominator, but two negatives will make a positive result.