Simple Cancellation of Fractions

  • Thread starter getfirefox
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In summary, the conversation discusses simplifying expressions involving fractions. The three expressions in the given image are respectively 2/a, 1, and -a/b, with certain restrictions depending on the problem. The first expression can be simplified to 1 by pulling out b/b, the second expression simplifies to 1 because it is a number over itself, and the third expression simplifies to -1 by converting (a - b)/(b - a) to (a - b)/-(a - b). These simplifications are valid under specific conditions as stated in the conversation.
  • #1
getfirefox
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Hello. These might be easy but I've not done this in years. What are these expressions canceled down? Not homework, I just can't do them.

[PLAIN]http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/4849/fractions.png

Thanks very much guys.
 
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  • #2
Respectively, 2/a, 1, and -a/b. In the first it is assumed that b is not 0; in the second that neither a nor b is 0; in the third that b is not 0 and that b is not equal to a.

Notice that in the first problem, we can pull out b/b, which is 1. The second is some number over itself, or 1. In the third problem, (a - b)/(b - a) = (a - b)/-(a - b), or -1. These values are with the previously stated restrictions.
 

Related to Simple Cancellation of Fractions

1. What is "Simple Cancellation of Fractions"?

"Simple Cancellation of Fractions" is a mathematical process used to simplify fractions by dividing both the numerator and denominator by a common factor. This results in an equivalent fraction with smaller numbers.

2. How do you know when to use Simple Cancellation of Fractions?

Simple Cancellation of Fractions can be used when there is a common factor present in both the numerator and denominator of a fraction. This can be determined by finding the greatest common factor (GCF) of the two numbers.

3. Can Simple Cancellation of Fractions be used on any type of fraction?

Yes, Simple Cancellation of Fractions can be used on any type of fraction, including proper fractions, improper fractions, and mixed numbers.

4. Is Simple Cancellation of Fractions the same as reducing fractions?

Yes, Simple Cancellation of Fractions is another term for reducing fractions. Both processes involve simplifying fractions to their lowest terms by dividing by a common factor.

5. Are there any rules to follow when using Simple Cancellation of Fractions?

The only rule to follow when using Simple Cancellation of Fractions is to ensure that the common factor being divided out is a factor of both the numerator and denominator. This will result in an equivalent fraction.

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