1/2 x 45: Understanding the Basics of Fraction Multiplication
Introduction
When it comes to mathematical operations, multiplication is one of the most fundamental concepts. However, things can get a bit tricky when dealing with fractions. In this article, we'll delve into the world of fraction multiplication, specifically focusing on the calculation 1/2 x 45.
What is Fraction Multiplication?
Fraction multiplication is a mathematical operation that involves multiplying two or more fractions together. The process is similar to regular multiplication, but it requires a solid understanding of fractions and how they work. To multiply fractions, you need to multiply the numerators (the numbers on top) and multiply the denominators (the numbers on the bottom), then simplify the result.
Calculating 1/2 x 45
Now, let's get to the calculation at hand: 1/2 x 45. To multiply a fraction by a whole number, we can convert the whole number to a fraction by placing it over 1. In this case, we'll convert 45 to 45/1.
Step 1: Multiply the Numerators
Multiply the numerators (the numbers on top):
1 (from 1/2) x 45 = 45
Step 2: Multiply the Denominators
Multiply the denominators (the numbers on the bottom):
2 (from 1/2) x 1 (from 45/1) = 2
Step 3: Simplify the Result
Now, combine the results from steps 1 and 2:
45/2
To simplify this fraction, we can divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 1 in this case. Therefore, the simplified result is:
45/2
Conclusion
In this article, we've explored the basics of fraction multiplication, specifically calculating 1/2 x 45. By following the steps outlined above, you should now have a solid understanding of how to multiply fractions and whole numbers. Remember to multiply the numerators and denominators separately, then simplify the result to get the final answer.
