Fraction Operations – Lucid Definition and Overview 

Introduction of Fractions

To begin with, let’s develop a brief insight into fractions. Here’s everything you need to know. 

• Fractions are nothing but numbers representing a part of the whole. 
• When we divide a particular object or a group of objects into equal parts, then each individual part is referred to as a fraction. 
• Usually, fractions are written as ½ or 6/12. 

What are the Parts, Properties and Types of Fractions?

Are you willing to explore and know about the parts, properties and types of fractions? Well, take some time to go through the following pointers and develop solid references for the same. 

Here’s all you need to know. 

Parts of Fractions

Fractions are divided into two parts. 

• Denominator: It is apparently the bottom or the lower part of the fraction that represents the sections of the fractions. 
• Numerator: Numerator, on the other hand, is the upper part of the fraction representing the sections of the fraction. 

For example, if 3/5 is a fraction, then 3 is the numerator, and 5 is the denominator. 

• Properties of Fraction

Fractional numbers hold some of the essential properties. Unless students are well-aware of the same, they will not be able to go about fractional equations in the way they should be. 

The properties of the fraction are as follows. 

• Associative and communicative properties hold true for fractional multiplication and addition. 
• Take note that the identity element of fractional addition is 0 and fractional multiplication is 1. 
• The multiplicative inverse a/b is b/a. Here, a and b should be a non-zero element. 
• Fractional numbers abide by the disruptive property of multiplication over addition. 

• Types of Fractions 

Now that you are aware of the properties and parts of a fraction, it’s time to delve deeper and know about the different types of fractions you would use down the road. 

• Proper fractions: Proper fractions refer to the equation where the numerator is less than the denominator.For example, 7/8 will be a proper fraction since the numerator is lesser than the denominator. 
• Improper fractions:This is a fraction where a numerator is greater than the denominator. For example, 8/7 will be an improper denominator since the numerator is greater than the denominator. 
• Mixed fractions:It is a combination of an integer part and a proper fraction. In other words, these are also known as mixed numerals or mixed numbers. 
• Like fractions:These are those fractions that are alike or the same. 
• Unlike fractions:Unlike, as the name suggests, are dissimilar in nature. 

Apart from each of these aforementioned fraction types, there are two other significant fraction types, namely, Equivalent fraction and Unit fraction. 

Rules For Simplification of Fractions

Merely knowing about the parts, properties and types of fractions isn’t enough if you fail to abide by the rules for simplification of fractions in equations. So, take your time to go about the following points and implement the rules for simplification of fractions like a champ. 

• Rule 1:Make sure that the denominators are equal before adding or subtracting fractions. The addition and subtraction of fractions are possible with a denominator in common. 
• Rule 2: The numerators are multiplied as well every time we multiply two fractions. 
• Rule 3: We need to find the reciprocal of another fraction and then multiply within the first one when dividing a fraction from another one.

What Are the Adding, Subtracting, Multiplication and Division Fractions?

This is again one critical area of concern when it comes to students trying to get the hang of fractions in every aspect. 

Now that you are willing to know what is adding, subtracting, multiplication and division fractions here’s all you need to know and learn. 

• The addition of fractions is really easy when there are common denominators. 
• You just need to add up the denominators, and your job is done. 
• Now, moving on to the context of subtracting fractions, the concept is almost similar to that of addition. 
• You just need to subtract two fractions if the denominators are common. 
• In the case of different denominators, you need to simplify the two fractions by finding the LCM of denominators and making it common for both the fractions. 
• When two fractions are multiplied, then the bottom part (denominator) and the top part (numerator) are multiplied together. 
• If you are supposed to divide any two fractions, then we need to implement the rule of multiplying the first fraction to the reciprocal of the second fraction. 

So, let’s feel safe to assume that you have developed a fair insight into the concepts of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions. Simply refer to more of such informative pieces and make a striking impression on your professor like a boss. 

Examples Of Fraction

No lesson is ever completed without proper references and examples to support the statements made and the points elaborated. So, in case you are looking for a few good examples of fractions, then you are reading the right blog. 

Take a look here and get introduced to the real examples of fractions. 

Example 1: 

Fraction of a whole:

When we divide a whole into equal parts, then each part is said to be a fraction of a whole. Refer to the image added below for a clearer idea and reference. 

Example 2: 

Fraction on a number line: 

Fraction on a number line is a visual, mathematical representation of fractions. It is explained and evaluated by plotting the given fractions on the number line. You can refer to the image below for further reference and clarity. 

While these were the two most important fraction types along with relevant examples for your insights, do not miss out on referring to more of such examples based on: 

• Unit fractions 
• Proper fractions 
• Improper fractions 
• Mixed fractions 

The idea is to get the concepts of various fractions and their applications straight in your head and go about your next assignment seamlessly. 

Well, here are a few tips on approaching and acing your next assignment on fractions. 

• Focus on the primary subject matter closely. 
• See what type of fraction the topic reflects. 
• Now, refer to this blog and find out the right way to approach that particular fraction type. 
• Remember, you should always attempt and solve fraction equations on your own instead of merely following these examples and elaborations blindly.

Cheers & good luck! 

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