Multiplication of Fraction

Multiplication of fractions involves multiplying the numerators and denominators separately. Fractions with different denominators can be multiplied directly without any modifications. However, mixed fractions must first be converted into improper fractions.

`a/c` × `c/d` = `"a × c" / "b × d"`

`3/5` × `1/2`​
1. Start with a Rectangle (Strip):

• Draw a rectangle to represent one whole.
  

2. Divide Vertically into 5 Equal Parts:

• Make 5 equal vertical sections to show the denominator of the first fraction`3/5`

3. Shade 3 out of 5 Parts:

• Shade 3 parts to show `3/5`

4. Divide Horizontally into 2 Equal Parts:

• Now, divide the same rectangle horizontally into 2 equal parts for the second fraction `1/2`

5. Shade 1 out of 2 Horizontal Parts Differently:

• Shade 1 part horizontally in a different way (like crosshatching or a different colour).

6. Find the Overlapping Part (Double Shaded):

• The parts that are shaded both ways represent
  `1/2` of  `3/5`
• Count the total small boxes: there are 10 equal parts now (5 × 2).
• Count the boxes shaded twice: 3 boxes.

7. Write the Final Fraction:

• The part shaded twice is `3/10`
• So,
  `3/5`×`1/2`=`3/10`
  
  `3/5`×`1/2`=`"3×1"/"5×2"` = `3/10`

• Multiply numerators and denominators “straight across”.

• Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions before multiplying.

• Always simplify your final answer.

• Multiplying fractions = finding a part of a part.