Simplify 36/48 To Lowest Terms In 3 Easy Steps

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Reducing a fraction to its lowest terms is an essential math skill that helps simplify complex fractions. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to simplify 36/48 to its lowest terms in 3 easy steps:

Step 1: Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)

To simplify a fraction, we need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator (36) and the denominator (48). The GCD is the largest number that divides both numbers without leaving a remainder.

Let's list the factors of 36 and 48:

Factors of 36: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 18, 36 Factors of 48: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 48

The greatest common divisor of 36 and 48 is 12.

Step 2: Divide Both Numbers by the GCD

Now that we have the GCD, we can divide both the numerator and the denominator by 12.

36 ÷ 12 = 3 48 ÷ 12 = 4

So, the simplified fraction is 3/4.

Step 3: Write the Simplified Fraction

And that's it! The simplified fraction is 3/4.

Benefits of Simplifying Fractions

Simplifying fractions has several benefits, including:

• Easier calculations: Simplified fractions are easier to work with, especially when performing calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Reduced errors: Simplifying fractions reduces the risk of errors, as you're working with smaller numbers.
• Improved understanding: Simplified fractions help you understand the relationship between the numerator and denominator, making it easier to comprehend complex math concepts.

Real-World Applications

Simplifying fractions is essential in various real-world applications, such as:

• Cooking: When scaling recipes up or down, simplifying fractions helps you adjust ingredient quantities accurately.
• Finance: Simplified fractions are used in calculating interest rates, investment returns, and other financial metrics.
• Science: Fractions are used to express measurements and quantities in science, and simplifying them helps ensure accuracy and precision.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When simplifying fractions, it's essential to avoid common mistakes, such as:

• Not finding the GCD: Failing to find the greatest common divisor can lead to incorrect simplification.
• Dividing by a non-common divisor: Dividing both numbers by a non-common divisor can result in an incorrect simplified fraction.
• Not checking for further simplification: Failing to check if the simplified fraction can be further reduced can lead to an incorrect answer.

By following these 3 easy steps, you can simplify fractions with confidence and accuracy. Remember to always find the GCD, divide both numbers by the GCD, and write the simplified fraction.

Practice Time!

Try simplifying these fractions on your own:

• 24/32
• 18/24
• 12/16

Conclusion

Simplifying fractions is an essential math skill that can be mastered with practice and patience. By following these 3 easy steps, you can simplify fractions with confidence and accuracy. Remember to always find the GCD, divide both numbers by the GCD, and write the simplified fraction.

We hope this article has helped you understand how to simplify fractions in 3 easy steps. Do you have any questions or topics you'd like to discuss? Leave a comment below, and we'll be happy to help.

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