Rule 12: MULTIPLICATION

To multiply a whole number and a fraction, complete the following steps.

1.

Convert the whole number to a fraction. (See Rule 8)

2.

Multiply the numerators.

3.

Multiply the denominators.

4.

Reduce the results. (See Rule 10)
a.
Factor the product of the numerators.
b.
Factor the product of the denominators.
c.
Look for the fractions that have a value of 1.

Example : Multiply .

Answer. Convert the 3 to the fraction . Now we have

Multiply the numerators and the denominators, but leave them in factored form .

Factor the numerator and denominator and look for the fractions that have a value of 1. We have

Now prove to yourself with your calculator that your answer is correct. Calculate 4 divided by 8 and and multiply the answer by 3. Now calculate 3 divided by 2. If you are correct, the answers are the same (equivalent) and you have successfully multiplied a simple fraction and a whole number.