Simplifying fractions can be a straightforward process. To simplify a fraction, we need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and the denominator and divide both numbers by this GCD. However, in the case of 14/20, we can simplify it more directly by observing that both numbers are multiples of 2.
Here's the simplified step:
Divide both the numerator and the denominator by 2.
So, you divide 14 by 2 to get 7, and you divide 20 by 2 to get 10. Therefore, 14/20 simplifies to 7/10.
Let's break down the concept of simplifying fractions and explore why this works:
Understanding Fractions
A fraction is a way to express a part of a whole. It consists of two parts: the numerator, which tells us how many equal parts we have, and the denominator, which tells us how many parts the whole is divided into.
The Concept of Simplifying
Simplifying a fraction means finding an equivalent fraction with the smallest possible numerator and denominator. This process does not change the value of the fraction but makes it easier to work with.
Why Does Dividing by 2 Work in This Case?
The reason dividing both the numerator and the denominator by 2 works for simplifying 14/20 is that both numbers share 2 as a common factor. By dividing both by 2, we are essentially removing this common factor, resulting in a simpler fraction, 7/10.
This principle can be applied to any fraction where the numerator and denominator have a common factor: you divide both by their greatest common factor (GCD) to simplify the fraction.
In conclusion, simplifying fractions is a useful skill in mathematics, allowing us to work with equivalent fractions in their simplest form. For 14/20, the easy step of dividing both the numerator and the denominator by 2 results in the simplified fraction 7/10.
What is the process of simplifying fractions?
+Simplifying fractions involves dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD) to find an equivalent fraction with the smallest possible numbers.
Why is simplifying fractions important?
+Simplifying fractions makes them easier to work with in mathematical operations and provides a clearer representation of the part of the whole being described.
Can all fractions be simplified?
+No, not all fractions can be simplified. A fraction is already in its simplest form if the numerator and the denominator have no common factors other than 1.