Simplify Multiplication of Fractions

In summary, the basic steps to simplify multiplication of fractions are to multiply the numerators and denominators together and then simplify the resulting fraction if possible. Common factors can be cancelled out to make the calculation easier. If the fractions have different denominators, the lowest common denominator must be found and each fraction must be converted to an equivalent fraction with the LCD before multiplying. It is important to simplify the resulting fraction to its lowest terms for future calculations, and a calculator can be used to do this, but it is still important to understand the basic steps.
  • #1
Albert1
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$\dfrac{3}{3\times 4}+\dfrac{4}{3\times 4\times 5}+\dfrac{5}{3\times 4\times 5\times 6}+\cdots+\dfrac {99}{3\times 4\times 5\times 6\times \cdots\times 99\times 100}$
 
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  • #2
Re: count value

Albert said:
$\dfrac{3}{3\times 4}+\dfrac{4}{3\times 4\times 5}+\dfrac{5}{3\times 4\times 5\times 6}+ \cdots +\dfrac {99}{3\times 4\times 5\times 6\times \cdots \times 99\times 100}$

$=2 \left( \dfrac{3}{2 \times 3\times 4}+\dfrac{4}{2\times 3\times 4\times 5}+\dfrac{5}{2\times 3\times 4\times 5\times 6}+ \cdots +\dfrac {99}{2 \times 3\times 4\times 5\times 6\times \cdots \times 99\times 100} \right)$

\(\displaystyle =2 \sum^{100}_ {n=4} \frac{n-1}{n!}=2 \sum^{100}_ {n=4} \frac{1}{(n-1)!}-\frac{1}{n!} \)

The sum is telescoping

\(\displaystyle 2\left( \dfrac{1}{3!} -\dfrac{1}{4!} + \dfrac{1}{4!} - \dfrac{1}{5!} + \frac{1}{5!}-\frac{1}{6!}+ \cdots +\dfrac {1}{99!} - \dfrac {1}{100!} \right)= 2 \left(\dfrac{1}{3!}-\dfrac{1}{100!} \right) \)
 

FAQ: Simplify Multiplication of Fractions

What are the basic steps to simplify multiplication of fractions?

The basic steps to simplify multiplication of fractions are:
1. Multiply the numerators of the fractions together.
2. Multiply the denominators of the fractions together.
3. Simplify the resulting fraction if possible by reducing the numerator and denominator to their lowest terms.

Can I cancel out common factors when multiplying fractions?

Yes, you can cancel out common factors when multiplying fractions. This is also known as reducing the fractions. Cancelling out common factors helps to simplify the resulting fraction and make the calculation easier.

What do I do if the fractions have different denominators?

If the fractions have different denominators, you need to find the lowest common denominator (LCD) by finding the lowest number that both denominators can divide into evenly. Then, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD as the denominator before multiplying.

Is it important to simplify the resulting fraction after multiplying?

Yes, it is important to simplify the resulting fraction after multiplying. Simplifying the fraction reduces it to its lowest terms and makes it easier to work with in future calculations.

Can I use a calculator to simplify multiplication of fractions?

Yes, you can use a calculator to simplify multiplication of fractions. Most calculators have a simplification function that can reduce fractions to their lowest terms. However, it is still important to understand the basic steps of simplifying fractions in case the calculator is not available.

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