Fractions: Understanding 1/2x4/7
In mathematics, fractions are an essential concept that can be used to represent part of a whole. In this article, we will explore the fraction 1/2x4/7 and how to simplify it.
What does 1/2x4/7 mean?
The fraction 1/2x4/7 can be broken down into two parts: 1/2 and 4/7. To understand what this fraction represents, let's break it down further.
- 1/2 represents one half of a whole.
- 4/7 represents four sevenths of a whole.
Multiplying Fractions
To simplify the fraction 1/2x4/7, we need to multiply the numerators (numbers on top) and the denominators (numbers at the bottom) separately.
- Multiply the numerators: 1 x 4 = 4
- Multiply the denominators: 2 x 7 = 14
So, the simplified fraction is 4/14.
Simplifying the Fraction
The fraction 4/14 can be simplified further by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). The GCD of 4 and 14 is 2.
- Divide both numerator and denominator by 2: (4 ÷ 2) / (14 ÷ 2) = 2/7
Therefore, the simplified fraction is 2/7.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fraction 1/2x4/7 can be simplified to 2/7 by multiplying the numerators and denominators separately and then dividing by the greatest common divisor. Understanding fractions is an essential part of mathematics, and being able to simplify them is a crucial skill to master.
