Simplify 8/12 In 3 Easy Steps

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Simplifying 8/12 in 3 Easy Steps

Simplifying fractions is an essential math skill that can be applied to various real-life situations. In this article, we will break down the steps to simplify 8/12 in a clear and concise manner.

Step 1: Identify the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)

To simplify a fraction, we need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and the denominator. The GCD is the largest number that divides both numbers without leaving a remainder. In this case, we need to find the GCD of 8 and 12.

How to Find the GCD of 8 and 12

There are several methods to find the GCD, including prime factorization, Euclid's algorithm, and listing the factors. Let's use the prime factorization method.

The prime factorization of 8 is 2^3, and the prime factorization of 12 is 2^2 * 3. The common factor is 2^2, which is equal to 4.

Step 2: Divide the Numerator and Denominator by the GCD

Now that we have found the GCD, we can simplify the fraction by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by 4.

8 ÷ 4 = 2 12 ÷ 4 = 3

The simplified fraction is 2/3.

Benefits of Simplifying Fractions

Simplifying fractions has several benefits, including:

• Easier calculations: Simplified fractions make calculations easier and faster.
• Improved accuracy: Simplified fractions reduce the risk of errors in calculations.
• Better understanding: Simplified fractions help to better understand the concept of fractions and their relationships.

Step 3: Verify the Simplified Fraction

Finally, we need to verify that the simplified fraction is indeed the simplest form. We can do this by checking if the numerator and denominator have any common factors other than 1.

In this case, 2 and 3 have no common factors other than 1, so the simplified fraction is indeed 2/3.

Real-World Applications of Simplifying Fractions

Simplifying fractions has numerous real-world applications, including:

• Cooking: Simplifying fractions helps to reduce the amount of ingredients needed in recipes.
• Science: Simplifying fractions is used in scientific calculations, such as measuring the ratio of elements in a compound.
• Finance: Simplifying fractions is used in financial calculations, such as calculating interest rates and investment returns.

In conclusion, simplifying 8/12 in 3 easy steps is a straightforward process that requires finding the GCD, dividing the numerator and denominator by the GCD, and verifying the simplified fraction. By following these steps, you can simplify fractions with ease and improve your math skills.

We hope this article has been informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.