Asked by Jennifer
When simplifying a rational fraction, why do you need to factor the numerator and the denominator?
If there is a common factor in both the numerator and denominator, that factor will cancel, thus simplifying the fraction.
e.g.
15/18 = (3*5)/3*6)
=(3/3)*(5/6)
=(1)*5/6
=5/6
If there is a common factor in both the numerator and denominator, that factor will cancel, thus simplifying the fraction.
e.g.
15/18 = (3*5)/3*6)
=(3/3)*(5/6)
=(1)*5/6
=5/6