Question

Why is it important to know how to multiply fractions in order to divide fractions?

Answer 1

Well, division is the inverse of multiplication

Answer 2

1. It is important to know how to multiply fractions in order to divide fractions because when dividing fractions, you use something called a reciprocal. A reciprocal is when you change a fraction or the whole number into the number that (when multiplied) would equal the whole number of the denominator or the whole number. For example, 1/8’s reciprocal is 8/1, because when multiplied together they equal 8. When you divide a number, you change the second number into its reciprocal and multiply the numbers, making it impossible avoid multiplication when dividing fractions, unless you used mental math or turned the fractions and mixed number into decimals and divided the numbers. 2. When dividing fractions, we invert and multiply because it is the most efficient way to answer division problems with fractions and mixed numbers. When you are dividing the fractions as decimals, using mental math, or just not using reciprocals and just dividing takes longer to complete, and it is easier to make mistakes. 3. An example to when you would need to know how to do multiplication with fractions and mixed numbers is the following below: You are making brownies and you need to add 2/3 of a cup of vegetable oil 5 times. How many cups of vegetable oil do you need in total? Here is how to solve it! 2/3 x 5 = 2/3 x 5/1 = 10/3 = 3 1/3.