Simplify 45/100 In One Easy Step
Simplifying fractions is an essential math skill that can be used in everyday life. Reducing a fraction to its lowest terms can make calculations easier and more efficient. In this article, we will show you how to simplify 45/100 in one easy step.
To simplify a fraction, you need to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator (45) and the denominator (100). The GCD is the largest number that divides both numbers without leaving a remainder.
Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)
To find the GCD, you can use a few different methods, such as listing the factors of each number, using a prime factorization, or using a calculator. Let's use the factor method to find the GCD of 45 and 100.
Factors of 45: 1, 3, 5, 9, 15, 45 Factors of 100: 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100
The largest number that appears in both lists is 5, so the GCD of 45 and 100 is 5.
Simplify the Fraction
Now that we have found the GCD, we can simplify the fraction by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by the GCD.
45 ÷ 5 = 9 100 ÷ 5 = 20
So, the simplified fraction is 9/20.
Why Simplifying Fractions is Important
Simplifying fractions is an important math skill that can be used in a variety of situations. Reducing a fraction to its lowest terms can make calculations easier and more efficient, and it can also help to avoid errors.
For example, if you are trying to add or subtract fractions with different denominators, you need to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. If the fractions are not simplified, finding the LCM can be more difficult.
Common Mistakes When Simplifying Fractions
When simplifying fractions, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Not finding the GCD correctly
- Dividing the numerator and denominator by different numbers
- Not checking to see if the fraction can be simplified further
To avoid these mistakes, make sure to find the GCD correctly and divide both the numerator and the denominator by the same number. Also, always check to see if the fraction can be simplified further.
Real-World Applications of Simplifying Fractions
Simplifying fractions has many real-world applications. For example, it can be used in cooking, finance, and science.
In cooking, simplifying fractions can help you to measure ingredients more accurately. For example, if a recipe calls for 3/4 cup of flour, but you only have a 1/4 cup measuring cup, you can simplify the fraction to 3/4 ÷ 4 = 3/16.
In finance, simplifying fractions can help you to calculate interest rates and investment returns. For example, if an investment earns a 3/4% interest rate, you can simplify the fraction to 3/4 ÷ 100 = 0.75%.
In science, simplifying fractions can help you to calculate ratios and proportions. For example, if a mixture is composed of 3/4 water and 1/4 acid, you can simplify the fraction to 3/4 ÷ 4 = 3/16.
Conclusion
Simplifying fractions is an essential math skill that can be used in everyday life. By finding the GCD and dividing both the numerator and the denominator by the GCD, you can reduce a fraction to its lowest terms. Remember to always check to see if the fraction can be simplified further, and avoid common mistakes such as not finding the GCD correctly or dividing the numerator and denominator by different numbers.
We hope this article has helped you to understand how to simplify 45/100 in one easy step. Try practicing with different fractions to become more comfortable with this important math skill.
What is the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 45 and 100?
+The GCD of 45 and 100 is 5.
Why is simplifying fractions important?
+Simplifying fractions is important because it can make calculations easier and more efficient, and it can also help to avoid errors.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when simplifying fractions?
+Common mistakes to avoid when simplifying fractions include not finding the GCD correctly, dividing the numerator and denominator by different numbers, and not checking to see if the fraction can be simplified further.