SOLUTION: What are the steps to reducing improper fractions? For example how do I solve 12/14?
Algebra.Com
Question 589965: What are the steps to reducing improper fractions? For example how do I solve 12/14?
Answer by solver91311(24713) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
is NOT an improper fraction. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than the denominator. In other words, 
is improper if and only if 
. As an aside, there is nothing really "improper" about improper fractions. In Algebra and beyond, improper fractions are generally a more preferable representation of a given ratio than the equivalent mixed number.
However, 
is NOT reduced to lowest terms. To reduce the given fraction to lowest terms, proceed as follows:
Perform the prime factorization of each of the numerator and denominator:
12 is even so divisible by 2, 12 divided by 2 is 6
6 is even so divisible by 2, 6 divided by 2 is 3
3 is prime
Prime factorization of 12 is 2 X 2 X 3.
14 is even so divisible by 2, 14 divided by 2 is 7
7 is prime
Prime factorization of 14 is 2 X 7
Reconstruct the fraction using the prime factorizations:
Eliminate factors common to both numerator and denominator:
Recompose as necessary:
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it
RELATED QUESTIONS
How to solve improper fractions? For example : 8/3 divided by 7/6 = (answered by stanbon)
how do you solve improper fractions ex.49 6/7+64... (answered by Theo)
List which of these are proper fractions and which are the improper ones.
29_ 21_ 7_ (answered by ewatrrr)
what are 3 improper fractions for 4... (answered by jojo14344)
Find an equation for the line parallel to-11x-13y=14 and that passes through the... (answered by josgarithmetic)
How do you find the remainder from division for the numerator when converting improper... (answered by fractalier)
6'4" and 8'1"
how do i express the length in feet using mixed fractions AND improper... (answered by sarah_adam)
Ok we are doing add and subtract like fractions i know how to put it in simplest form but (answered by checkley77)
how do u solve a variable equation with fractions ? for example 1/4 + 3/8y = 3/4... (answered by Alan3354)
