multiplying fractions can look confusing at first, but with some practice it gets easier!
let’s start with this:
when you multiply a positive and a negative number, it will come out negative. for example: 2• -3 = -6
when you multiply two negatives, the product will be positive. for example: -2• -3 = 6
now, when one multiplies fractions, they will simply write them side by side and multiply the numerator and denominator.
for example: 2/4 • 3/4
start with 2•3= 6
and 4•4= 16
so, 2/4 • 3/4 = 6/16
now, let’s start with the equation 5 1/6(-2/5)
you can’t multiply mixed numbers so let’s convert 5 1/6 to an improper fraction.
first, multiply 5 by 6, this = 30.
then, you will have 30/6, + the 1/6 that was already there.
add 30+1, so it comes out as 31/6.
now, 31/6• -2/5.
multiply: -2•31 = -62
then: 6•5 = 30
now, we have -62/30 !
this can be your answer, but sometimes you are required to simplify.
simplifying is just dividing the numerator AND denominator by their Least Common Multiple
for these fractions, the LCM is 2
so, -62 divided by (/) 2 is -31
and 30 / 2 = 15
now that we simplified, we have -31/15
IF it needs to be a mixed number, you will divide the numerator and denominator, so
15 goes into -31, -2 times, plus an extra 1/15 left.
we end up with -2 1/15.
if you are confused, basically the answer is
-62/30 (not simplified & an improper fraction )
-31/15 ( and an improper fraction)
or -2 1/15 (now & #
hope this helps!
