Fraction Calculator
Fraction Calculator
First Fraction
Second Fraction
How it works: This calculator performs operations on fractions and automatically simplifies the results. Enter two fractions and select an operation to see the result in improper fraction, mixed number, and decimal forms. The calculator shows step-by-step calculations and uses the greatest common divisor (GCD) to simplify fractions to their lowest terms.
Overview
Comprehensive fraction calculator that performs addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with automatic simplification to lowest terms. Features include automatic simplification, mixed number conversion, step-by-step calculations, and decimal equivalents.
About
About Fractions
Fractions represent parts of a whole, written as numerator/denominator. They're fundamental in mathematics for representing quantities that aren't whole numbers. Understanding fractions is essential for advanced mathematics, cooking measurements, construction, and many real-world applications.
Features:
- Add, subtract, multiply, divide fractions
- Automatic simplification to lowest terms
- Mixed number and improper fraction conversion
- Step-by-step calculation display
- Decimal equivalent calculation
Types of Fractions
There are several types of fractions: proper fractions (numerator smaller than denominator), improper fractions (numerator larger than denominator), mixed numbers (whole number plus proper fraction), and equivalent fractions (different fractions representing the same value).
FAQ
How does the calculator simplify fractions?
It uses the greatest common divisor (GCD) to divide both numerator and denominator by their largest common factor.
What's the difference between improper and mixed fractions?
Improper fractions have larger numerators than denominators. Mixed numbers show whole numbers plus proper fractions.
Can it handle negative fractions?
Yes, you can enter negative numbers in either the numerator or denominator to work with negative fractions.
How do you add fractions with different denominators?
Find a common denominator (usually the product of both denominators), convert each fraction, then add numerators.
Why does division of fractions involve multiplication?
Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal (inverse). This is a fundamental property of fractions.