5 Ways to Make Equivalent Fractions Easily

Understanding Equivalent Fractions

Equivalent fractions are fractions that have the same value, but with different numerators and denominators. These fractions can be simplified or expressed in different forms without changing their value. For example, ¹⁄₂, ²⁄₄, and ³⁄₆ are all equivalent fractions because they represent the same proportion of a whole.

In this article, we will explore five ways to make equivalent fractions easily. We will discuss the concepts, provide examples, and offer tips to help you master the skill.

Method 1: Multiplying by the Same Number

One way to make equivalent fractions is to multiply both the numerator and denominator by the same number. This method is based on the fact that multiplying a fraction by 1 (in the form of a/b) does not change its value.

For example, to make an equivalent fraction of ¹⁄₂, you can multiply both numbers by 3:

1 × 3 = 3 2 × 3 = 6

So, the equivalent fraction is ³⁄₆.

Another example is:

²⁄₃ × 4 = ⁸⁄₁₂

👍 Note: When multiplying fractions, make sure to multiply the numerator and denominator by the same number to maintain equivalence.

Method 2: Dividing by the Same Number

Another way to make equivalent fractions is to divide both the numerator and denominator by the same number. This method is based on the fact that dividing a fraction by 1 (in the form of a/b) does not change its value.

For example, to make an equivalent fraction of ⁶⁄₈, you can divide both numbers by 2:

6 ÷ 2 = 3 8 ÷ 2 = 4

So, the equivalent fraction is ³⁄₄.

Another example is:

¹²⁄₁₆ ÷ 4 = ³⁄₄

Method 3: Using Simplest Form

Equivalent fractions can also be created by simplifying a fraction to its simplest form. To do this, you need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and divide both numbers by the GCD.

For example, to simplify the fraction ⁸⁄₁₂, you can find the GCD of 8 and 12, which is 4. Then, divide both numbers by 4:

8 ÷ 4 = 2 12 ÷ 4 = 3

So, the simplified fraction is ²⁄₃.

📝 Note: Simplifying fractions to their simplest form can help you identify equivalent fractions more easily.

Method 4: Adding or Subtracting the Same Number

You can also create equivalent fractions by adding or subtracting the same number to both the numerator and denominator. This method is based on the fact that adding or subtracting 0 (in the form of a/b) does not change the value of the fraction.

For example, to make an equivalent fraction of ³⁄₄, you can add 2 to both numbers:

3 + 2 = 5 4 + 2 = 6

So, the equivalent fraction is ⁵⁄₆.

Another example is:

²⁄₃ - 1 = ¹⁄₂

Method 5: Using a Multiplication Chart

A multiplication chart can be used to create equivalent fractions by multiplying the numerator and denominator by the same number. This method is especially helpful when dealing with larger numbers.

For example, to make an equivalent fraction of ⁴⁄₆, you can use a multiplication chart to find the product of 4 and 3:

4 × 3 = 12 6 × 3 = 18

So, the equivalent fraction is ¹²⁄₁₈.

Another example is:

6 × 2 = 12 8 × 2 = 16

Using these five methods, you can easily create equivalent fractions and simplify complex fractions. Remember to always check your work and ensure that the fractions are equivalent.

In the next section, we will provide answers to some frequently asked questions about equivalent fractions.

By mastering these five methods, you can easily create equivalent fractions and simplify complex fractions.

Related Terms:

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• Equivalent fraction Worksheet grade 3
• Comparing fractions Worksheet grade 4
• Fraction addition and subtraction worksheet