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Multiplying algebraic fractions

In order to multiply fractions, multiply the top numbers (numerators) together and multiply the bottom numbers (denominators) together and simplify the answer when required.

Example

Calculate \(\frac{4}{5} \times \frac{5}{6}\)

Method 1

Multiply then cancel:

\(= \frac{{4 \times 5}}{{5 \times 6}}\)

\(= \frac{{20}}{{30}}\)

\(= \frac{2}{3}\)

Method 2

Cancel first then multiply :

\(= \frac{{4 \times 5}}{{5 \times 6}}\)

Now divide both 5s by common factor 5 and divide 4 and 6 by common factor 2.

\(= \frac{{2 \times 1}}{{1 \times 3}}\)

\(= \frac{2}{3}\)

Question

Calculate \(\frac{5}{6} \times \frac{3}{8}\)

Question

Calculate \(\frac{2}{3} \times \frac{5}{y}\)

Question

\(\frac{{y - 5}}{{y + 1}} \times \frac{{y + 1}}{{y + 2}}\)