Dividing fractions by whole numbers
In a nutshell
Dividing fractions by whole numbers is a case of either multiplying the denominator of the fraction by the whole number, or dividing the numerator of the fraction by the whole number - whichever is easier! Always try to simplify at the end.
Fractions reminder
Remember that a fraction represents one number divided by another number, specifically, the numerator divided by the denominator. So
94=4÷9
There are two different methods you can use to divide a fraction by a whole number.
Multiply the denominator
Procedure
1. | Leave the numerator as it is. |
2. | Multiply the denominator by the whole number you are dividing by. |
3. | Simplify the fraction if necessary. |
Example 1
Solve the following question:
94÷2
Leave the numerator as it is, and multiply the denominator by 2.
94÷2=9×24=184
Simplify the fraction (if necessary) to reach the final answer.
184=92
Divide the numerator
Procedure
1. | Leave the denominator as it is. |
2. | Divide the numerator by the whole number you are dividing by. |
3. | Simplify the fraction if necessary. |
Example 2
Solve the following question:
94÷2
Leave the denominator as it is, and divide the numerator by 2.
94÷2=94÷2=92
Note: As you can see, in this case, the second method was quicker as there was no simplifying needed. However, both methods resulted in the same answer.