Divide Fractions Example

Grades 5-6Key Stage 2-3Årskurs 5-6

Problem

Divide the fractions: 3/4 ÷ 2/5

📝Step-by-Step Solution

1

Keep the first fraction

Write the first fraction as it is: 3/4

Keep: 3/4
2

Change division to multiplication

Change the ÷ sign to a × sign

Change: ÷ becomes ×
3

Flip the second fraction (reciprocal)

Flip 2/5 to get 5/2. This is called the reciprocal.

Flip: 2/5 becomes 5/2
4

Rewrite the problem

Now we have: 3/4 × 5/2

3/4 ÷ 2/5 = 3/4 × 5/2
5

Multiply the fractions

Multiply numerators: 3 × 5 = 15. Multiply denominators: 4 × 2 = 8.

3/4 × 5/2 = 15/8
6

Convert to mixed number (optional)

15 ÷ 8 = 1 remainder 7, so 15/8 = 1 7/8

15/8 = 1 7/8

Final Answer

15/8 or 1 7/8

To divide fractions, use "Keep-Change-Flip" (also called "multiply by the reciprocal"): Keep the first fraction, Change ÷ to ×, Flip the second fraction. Then multiply normally. This works because dividing by a number is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.

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