freeCodeCamp/guide/english/mathematics/dividing-fractions/index.md

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Dividing Fractions

Dividing Fractions

This is similar to multiplying two fractions, with an additional step

Consider the expression A ÷ B, here A is called the dividend and B is called the divisor.

Here are the steps to divide two fractions,

1. Take the reciprocal of the divisor fraction (B).
2. Multiply the dividend fraction (A) with the reciprocal of the divisor fraction
3. Simplify the resultant fraction, if possible

Examples

Example 1

  2⁄3 ÷ 6⁄7 

1. Take the reciprocal of the divisor. To take a reciprocal of a fraction, interchange the numerator and denominator of that fraction. The reciprocal of ⁶⁄₇ is ⁷⁄₆

2. Multiply the dividend with the reciprocal of the divisor

 2⁄3 ÷ 6⁄7 = 2⁄3 × 7⁄6 = 7⁄9 

Example 2

  4⁄6 ÷ 2  = 4⁄6 × 1⁄2 = 4⁄12 = 1⁄3 (Simplified) 

Please note a whole number can be considered as a fraction by considering its denominator as 1.
Also, you can only divide by non-zero fractions.