Dividing with Fractions

Models If one and ¾ pizzas are cut into ¼ sections, how many people will receive a share? 1 whole ¾ Since there are 7 equal quarters, 7 people will each receive a share. 1 ¾ ÷ ¼ = 7

Model 2 Divide ¾ by 3/16 There are 4 groups of 3/16, so ¾ ÷ 3/16 = 4 1/4 1/16

Procedures Instead of drawing models every time, there is a procedure that we can use to easily solve these types of problems. First, we must know what a RECIPROCAL is: Any two numbers whose product is 1 are called reciprocals of each other. How do we find reciprocals? Invert the second fraction, or flip it.

Examples Find the reciprocal of the following: = 9 4 Your turn 3 2 and

Examples 1 ) First change mixed numbers to improper fractions 2)Flip second fraction (invert) 3)Multiply the two fractions 1) ¾ ÷ 3/16 = ¾ x 16/3 1 3 x 16 4 = 4 invert ) 1 3 ÷ 1 = 7 x 4 = 7 * change mixed numbers to improper fractions first. 3) You try 2 1 ÷ 3 2 = remember to change all mixed 5 3 numbers to improper fractions first.

Review Procedures First change all mixed numbers to improper fractions if necessary. Invert or flip the second fraction. Change division symbol to multiplication. Try these: 3 ÷ ÷