How It Works
Dividing fractions follows the "keep, change, flip" rule: keep the first fraction, change division to multiplication, and flip the second fraction (take its reciprocal). Then multiply the numerators and denominators, and simplify using the GCD.
Example Problem
Divide 3/4 ÷ 2/5:
- Flip the second fraction: 2/5 becomes 5/2.
- Multiply: 3/4 × 5/2 = 15/8.
- Convert to mixed number: 1 7/8.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to divide fractions step by step?
Keep the first fraction unchanged, flip the second fraction (swap its numerator and denominator), then multiply across. Simplify the result by dividing numerator and denominator by their GCD.
Why do you flip the second fraction when dividing?
Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. This is because division asks "how many groups of this size fit?" and the reciprocal converts that question into a multiplication.
Can you divide a fraction by a whole number?
Yes. Write the whole number as a fraction with denominator 1 (e.g., 3 = 3/1), then apply the keep-change-flip rule. For example, 2/5 ÷ 3 = 2/5 × 1/3 = 2/15.
Related Calculators
- Fraction Multiplication Calculator — multiply fractions with shown work.
- Fraction Addition Calculator — add fractions with unlike denominators.
- Long Division Calculator — divide whole numbers with step-by-step work.
- Fraction Subtraction Calculator — subtract fractions with step-by-step work.
- GCF Calculator — find the greatest common factor to simplify results.