3/5 simplified

Simplifying 3/5: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the concept of simplifying fractions and apply it to the specific problem of simplifying 3/5. We will provide a step-by-step solution to the problem and explain the method used to find the greatest common divisor (GCD) or highest common factor (HCF). Additionally, we will provide solved examples related to simplifying fractions to further enhance your understanding.

What does the question mean?

The question "What is the answer to 3/5 simplified?" is asking us to find the simplest form of the fraction 3/5. Simplifying a fraction involves reducing it to its lowest terms by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor.

Answer: 3/5 simplified

The simplified form of 3/5 is also 3/5. Since the numerator (3) and denominator (5) do not have any common factors other than 1, the fraction cannot be further simplified.

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

1. The numerator of the fraction is 3, and the denominator is 5.
2. To find the GCD (or HCF) of 3 and 5, we observe that they do not have any common factors other than 1.
3. Divide both the numerator and denominator by 1.
   • 3 ÷ 1 = 3
   • 5 ÷ 1 = 5
4. The resulting fraction is 3/5, which is already in its simplest form.

Solved examples related to 3/5 simplified

Example 1: Simplify the fraction 6/10. Solution:

1. The numerator is 6, and the denominator is 10.
2. The GCD of 6 and 10 is 2.
3. Divide both the numerator and denominator by 2.
   • 6 ÷ 2 = 3
   • 10 ÷ 2 = 5
4. The simplified form of 6/10 is 3/5.

Example 2: Simplify the fraction 12/18. Solution:

1. The numerator is 12, and the denominator is 18.
2. The GCD of 12 and 18 is 6.
3. Divide both the numerator and denominator by 6.
   • 12 ÷ 6 = 2
   • 18 ÷ 6 = 3
4. The simplified form of 12/18 is 2/3.

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 largest common factor is 6, which is the GCD (or HCF) of 12 and 18.

Conclusion

Simplifying fractions is an essential skill in mathematics. By finding the GCD (or HCF) of the numerator and denominator and dividing them by it, we can obtain the simplest form of a fraction. In the case of 3/5, the fraction is already in its simplest form. Remember to apply the steps mentioned in this article to simplify any given fraction effectively.