To solve the problem of dividing fractions, particularly 1/3 divided by 1/6, we can break it down into simple steps. This guide will not only help you understand the process but also reinforce your fraction skills. Let's dive into it!
Understanding the Division of Fractions
Dividing fractions may seem tricky at first, but it's quite straightforward once you grasp the concept. When we divide one fraction by another, we actually multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction.
What is a Reciprocal?
The reciprocal of a fraction is simply that fraction flipped upside down. For example, the reciprocal of 1/6 is 6/1 (or just 6).
Step 1: Identify the Fractions
In our problem, we have:
- First Fraction (Dividend): 1/3
- Second Fraction (Divisor): 1/6
Step 2: Write the Division as Multiplication
Instead of writing the division, we rewrite the problem as a multiplication of the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction:
[ 1/3 \div 1/6 = 1/3 \times 6/1 ]
Step 3: Multiply the Fractions
Now that we have rewritten our division as multiplication, we can multiply the numerators (top numbers) together and the denominators (bottom numbers) together.
Here’s how it looks:
- Numerator: (1 \times 6 = 6)
- Denominator: (3 \times 1 = 3)
So, we get:
[ 1/3 \times 6/1 = 6/3 ]
Step 4: Simplify the Result
Now we have the fraction 6/3. We can simplify this fraction. To simplify, we divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD).
In this case, both 6 and 3 can be divided by 3:
[ 6 ÷ 3 = 2 \quad \text{and} \quad 3 ÷ 3 = 1 ]
Thus, we have:
[ 6/3 = 2/1 ]
Which is simply 2.
Summary of Steps
To sum up, here are the steps we took to solve 1/3 divided by 1/6:
- Rewrite the division as multiplication by the reciprocal:
- (1/3 \div 1/6 = 1/3 \times 6/1)
- Multiply the fractions:
- ((1 \times 6) / (3 \times 1) = 6/3)
- Simplify the result:
- (6/3 = 2)
Final Answer
Thus, 1/3 divided by 1/6 equals 2. 🎉
Additional Tips for Dividing Fractions
- Always remember to flip the second fraction. This is the key to division of fractions!
- Keep your fractions in simplest form whenever possible to make calculations easier.
- Practice with different fractions to build your confidence in dividing fractions.
By following these simple steps, you'll be able to tackle any fraction division problems with ease! Happy calculating! 😊