Lesson Page

 

Math B

Multiplication of
Rational Fractions

 

Simply Put:
The rule for multiplying algebraic fractions
 is the same as the rule for multiplying numerical fractions.

Multiply the tops (numerators)
 AND
multiply the bottoms (denominators).

 

The Rule:

 

If possible,
reduce (cancel) BEFORE you multiply the tops and bottoms!
(It's easier than simplifying at the end!)


EXAMPLES

  


Multiply and express the product in simplest form:
1.  Here is a numerical problem to refresh your memory on the
     process.

 

CAUTION:

You can only cancel top with bottom or bottom with top.

There is NO canceling bottom with bottom or top with top!

2.  Now, let's move on to algebraic fractions.

Remember your rules for working with exponents.

3.   Here is a more challenging problem.


  

 

Factor everything that can be factored.

 

Cancel (bottom with top or top with bottom).

 

 

Multiply tops (numerators) and bottoms (denominators).