Multiplying Fractions: A Step-by-Step Guide
When we multiply fractions, we need to follow a specific order of operations to get the correct answer. Let's break down the multiplication of 1/2 x 1/4 x 1/4 x 1/4 as a fraction.
Step 1: Multiply the Numerators
To start, we need to multiply the numerators (the numbers on top) of each fraction:
1 (from 1/2) × 1 (from 1/4) × 1 (from 1/4) × 1 (from 1/4) = 1
Step 2: Multiply the Denominators
Next, we need to multiply the denominators (the numbers on the bottom) of each fraction:
2 (from 1/2) × 4 (from 1/4) × 4 (from 1/4) × 4 (from 1/4) = 128
Step 3: Write the Product as a Fraction
Now, we can write the product as a fraction by combining the multiplied numerators and denominators:
1/128
So, the result of multiplying 1/2 x 1/4 x 1/4 x 1/4 as a fraction is 1/128.