Introduction:

Multiplying fractions is an arithmetic operation where two fractions are combined to produce a new fraction. This process involves multiplying the numerators (top numbers) and denominators (bottom numbers) of the fractions.



Understanding Fraction Multiplication:



When you multiply fractions, you multiply the numerators together and the denominators together.

The result is a new fraction that represents the product of the original fractions.

Steps for Multiplying Fractions:



Multiply the numerators of the fractions to get the numerator of the product.

Multiply the denominators of the fractions to get the denominator of the product.

Simplify the resulting fraction if possible.

Example:



To multiply 1/2 by 2/3:

Multiply the numerators: 1 × 2 = 2.

Multiply the denominators: 2 × 3 = 6.

The product is 2/6, which simplifies to 1/3.

Key Points to Remember:



Multiplying fractions does not require a common denominator, unlike adding or subtracting fractions.

Always simplify the product to its lowest terms if possible.

Practical Applications:



Multiplying fractions is used in various real-life scenarios like cooking, dividing resources, and calculating proportions.