2/12 simplified

Simplifying 2/12: A Step-by-Step Solution

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the process of simplifying the fraction 2/12. We will explain what this question means and provide a step-by-step solution to find the simplified form of the fraction. Additionally, we will discuss the concept of finding the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) or Highest Common Factor (HCF) and its relevance in simplifying fractions.

Understanding the Question

The question "What is the answer to 2/12 simplified?" asks us to find the simplified form of the fraction 2/12. Simplifying a fraction involves reducing it to its simplest form by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor.

Answer: 2/12 Simplified

Before diving into the method, let's first provide the answer to the question. The simplified form of 2/12 is 1/6.

Method: Tips

To simplify a fraction, follow these steps:

1. Find the GCD (or 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

Now, let's go through the step-by-step solution to simplify 2/12:

Step 1: Find the GCD (or HCF) of 2 and 12.

• The factors of 2 are 1 and 2.
• The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
• The GCD of 2 and 12 is 2.

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

• 2 ÷ 2 = 1
• 12 ÷ 2 = 6

Step 3: The resulting fraction is 1/6, which is the simplified form of 2/12.

Therefore, the simplified form of 2/12 is 1/6.

Solved Examples

Let's explore a few more examples to solidify our understanding of simplifying fractions:

Example 1: Simplify 4/8

• GCD of 4 and 8 is 4.
• 4 ÷ 4 = 1
• 8 ÷ 4 = 2
• The simplified form is 1/2.

Example 2: Simplify 9/27

• GCD of 9 and 27 is 9.
• 9 ÷ 9 = 1
• 27 ÷ 9 = 3
• The simplified form is 1/3.

How to Find GCD (or HCF)?

To find the GCD (or 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:

• Factors of 12: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12
• Factors of 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18
• Common factors: 1, 2, 3, 6
• The GCD of 12 and 18 is 6.

Conclusion

Simplifying fractions involves finding the simplest form by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor. In the case of 2/12, the simplified form is 1/6. By following the step-by-step solution and understanding the concept of finding the GCD (or HCF), we can simplify fractions efficiently.