Notes: parts of a whole
Notes · 1/3A fraction describes part of a whole that has been divided into equal parts.
In the fraction 3/4:
- the denominator (4) tells us how many equal parts the whole is divided into;
- the numerator (3) tells us how many of those parts we are talking about.
Equivalent fractions
Fractions that have the same value are called equivalent fractions. Multiply (or divide) the numerator and the denominator by the same number:
| Fraction | × 2 | × 3 |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | 2/4 | 3/6 |
| 2/3 | 4/6 | 6/9 |
Example: Simplify 6/8. Divide the top and bottom by 2 → 3/4.