MathematicsClass 7Fractions and Decimals
Division of Fractions
Dividing fractions by utilizing the reciprocal of the divisor fraction.
Class 7 · MathematicsCBSE & ICSE SOF IMO
Definition
Division of fractions is performed by multiplying the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction. The reciprocal is obtained by swapping the numerator and the denominator of the divisor. Just like in multiplication, mixed numbers must be converted to improper fractions first.
Key formula
A/B divided by C/D = A/B times D/C
Worked examples
1
Divide 3/4 by 1/2: 3/4 times 2/1 = 6/4 = 3/2
2
Divide 5/6 by 5/3: 5/6 times 3/5 = 15/30 = 1/2
3
Divide 2 by 1/4: 2/1 times 4/1 = 8
Common mistakes
- • Reciprocating the first fraction instead of the second fraction (the divisor).
- • Directly dividing numerators and denominators without using the reciprocal method.