5/12 divided by 3/8
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the process to divide two fractions, specifically 5/12 and 3/8. To solve it, we will multiply the first fraction (5/12) by the reciprocal of the second fraction (8/3).
Answer
$\frac{10}{9}$
Answer for screen readers
The result of dividing $ \frac{5}{12} $ by $ \frac{3}{8} $ is $ \frac{10}{9} $.
Steps to Solve
- Identify the fractions to be divided
We need to divide the fractions $ \frac{5}{12} $ and $ \frac{3}{8} $.
- Find the reciprocal of the second fraction
To divide by a fraction, we multiply by its reciprocal. The reciprocal of $ \frac{3}{8} $ is $ \frac{8}{3} $.
- Set up the multiplication
Now, we can rewrite the division problem as a multiplication problem: $$ \frac{5}{12} \div \frac{3}{8} = \frac{5}{12} \times \frac{8}{3} $$
- Multiply the numerators and the denominators
Next, we multiply the numerators and the denominators:
- Numerators: $5 \times 8 = 40$
- Denominators: $12 \times 3 = 36$
Thus, we have: $$ \frac{5 \times 8}{12 \times 3} = \frac{40}{36} $$
- Simplify the resulting fraction
Now, we simplify $ \frac{40}{36} $ by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of 40 and 36. The GCD is 4.
Dividing both the numerator and the denominator by 4 gives us: $$ \frac{40 \div 4}{36 \div 4} = \frac{10}{9} $$
The result of dividing $ \frac{5}{12} $ by $ \frac{3}{8} $ is $ \frac{10}{9} $.
More Information
Dividing fractions is often easier than it seems! Remember that dividing by a fraction is equivalent to multiplying by its reciprocal. This technique can help in many math problems involving fractions.
Tips
- One common mistake is forgetting to take the reciprocal of the second fraction before multiplying. Always remember: divide by a fraction means multiply by its reciprocal.
- Another mistake is not simplifying the final answer. Always check if your fraction can be simplified.
