How do I multiply fractions with large numbers?

Thread starter jemjabella42
Start date Jan 16, 2012
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Fractions

In summary, multiplying fractions involves multiplying the numerators and denominators separately, and then simplifying the resulting fraction. Different denominators can be multiplied by finding the common denominator and converting the fractions. Mixed numbers can also be multiplied by converting them to improper fractions first. The product of two fractions may not always be smaller than the original fractions. And finally, more than two fractions can be multiplied by multiplying all the numerators and denominators together.

Jan 16, 2012

jemjabella42

How do I take (2/3) x (3 x 10^8)?

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Jan 16, 2012

Delphi51

Homework Helper

You could express 2/3 as 0.66666667 and multiply by 3 x 10^8.
You could cancel the 3's to get 2 x 10^8
You could multiply the numerators 2 x 3 x 10^8, then divide by the denominator 3.

FAQ: How do I multiply fractions with large numbers?

How do you multiply fractions?

Multiplying fractions is done by multiplying the numerators (top numbers) together and multiplying the denominators (bottom numbers) together. The resulting fraction should then be simplified if possible.

Can you multiply fractions with different denominators?

Yes, you can multiply fractions with different denominators. First, find the common denominator by finding the lowest common multiple of the two denominators. Then, convert each fraction into an equivalent fraction with the common denominator. Finally, multiply the fractions as usual.

What is the rule for multiplying mixed numbers?

The rule for multiplying mixed numbers is to first convert them into improper fractions. Then, multiply the fractions as usual and simplify the resulting fraction if possible. Finally, convert the resulting improper fraction back into a mixed number if necessary.

Is the product of two fractions always smaller than the original fractions?

No, the product of two fractions can sometimes be larger or equal to the original fractions. For example, when multiplying two proper fractions less than 1, the product can be larger than either fraction.

Can you multiply more than two fractions at a time?

Yes, you can multiply more than two fractions at a time. Simply multiply all the numerators together and all the denominators together. The resulting product may need to be simplified if possible.