3/2 simplified

Simplifying the Fraction 3/2

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the concept of simplifying fractions and specifically focus on simplifying the fraction 3/2. We will discuss what this question means and provide a step-by-step solution to find the simplified form of 3/2.

What does this question mean?

When we talk about simplifying a fraction, we mean expressing it in its simplest form by reducing the numerator and denominator to their smallest possible values. In the case of the fraction 3/2, we need to find an equivalent fraction with the smallest possible numerator and denominator.

Answer: 3/2 simplified

The simplified form of the fraction 3/2 is 1 1/2 or 1.5.

Method: Tips

To simplify a fraction, we can follow these steps:

1. Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) or Highest Common Factor (HCF) of the numerator and denominator.
2. Divide both the numerator and denominator by the GCD.
3. The resulting fraction is the simplified form.

Step-by-step solution

Let's apply the method mentioned above to simplify the fraction 3/2:

Step 1: Find the GCD of 3 and 2.

• The factors of 3 are 1 and 3.
• The factors of 2 are 1 and 2.
• The GCD of 3 and 2 is 1.

Step 2: Divide both the numerator and denominator by the GCD.

• 3 ÷ 1 = 3
• 2 ÷ 1 = 2

Step 3: The simplified fraction is 3/2.

Solved examples related to 3/2 simplified

Example 1: Simplify the fraction 6/4.

• Step 1: The GCD of 6 and 4 is 2.
• Step 2: Divide both the numerator and denominator by 2.
  • 6 ÷ 2 = 3
  • 4 ÷ 2 = 2
• Step 3: The simplified fraction is 3/2.

Example 2: Simplify the fraction 9/12.

• Step 1: The GCD of 9 and 12 is 3.
• Step 2: Divide both the numerator and denominator by 3.
  • 9 ÷ 3 = 3
  • 12 ÷ 3 = 4
• Step 3: The simplified fraction is 3/4.

How to find GCD (or HCF)?

To find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) or Highest Common Factor (HCF) of two numbers, follow these steps:

1. List all the factors of both numbers.
2. Identify the common factors.
3. The largest common factor is the GCD or HCF.

For example, to find the GCD of 12 and 18:

• The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
• The factors of 18 are 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 18.
• The common factors are 1, 2, 3, and 6.
• The largest common factor is 6, so the GCD of 12 and 18 is 6.

Conclusion

Simplifying fractions is an essential skill in mathematics. By finding the GCD and dividing both the numerator and denominator, we can express a fraction in its simplest form. In the case of the fraction 3/2, the simplified form is 1 1/2 or 1.5. Remember to always simplify fractions to make calculations and comparisons easier.