Rule 13: MULTIPLICATION

To multiply three or more simple fractions, complete the following three steps.

1.
Multiply the numerators.
2.
Multiply the denominators.
3.
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 tex2html_wrap_inline101 and reduce the answer.

Answer. Multiply the numerators and the denominators, but leave them in factored form tex2html_wrap_inline103 .

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

displaymath105

Now prove to yourself with your calculator that your answer is correct. Calculate the answer to 3 divided by 4, 6 divided by 7, 8 divided by 9, and and multiply the answers. Now calculate 4 divided by 7. If you are correct, the answers are the same (equivalent) and you have successfully multiplied three simple fractions.

If you would like to review another example, click on the word Example .

Work the following problems. If you want to check your answer and look at the solution, click on the word Answer.

Problem 1: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline107 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 2: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline109 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 3: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline111 and reduce the answer.

Answer

Problem 4: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline113 .

Answer

Problem 5: Multiply tex2html_wrap_inline115 .

Answer

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