Fraction Calculator
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions with this free online fraction calculator. The calculator shows step-by-step solutions and automatically reduces fractions to their simplest form.
Calculation Result: -
Enter two fractions and select an operation to see the solution steps.
| Decimal Result | - |
|---|---|
| Simplified Form | - |
| Mixed Number | - |
About the Fraction Calculator
This fraction calculator allows you to perform basic arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) with fractions, mixed numbers, and whole numbers. The calculator provides step-by-step solutions and automatically simplifies the results to their lowest terms.
How to Use the Calculator
- Enter the numerator and denominator for each fraction
- Select the operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division)
- Click "Calculate" to see the result and solution steps
- Use "Clear" to reset the calculator
Understanding Fractions
A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (the top number) and a denominator (the bottom number). The numerator indicates how many parts are being considered, while the denominator shows how many equal parts the whole is divided into.
Proper Fractions
A proper fraction has a numerator that is less than its denominator (e.g., 3/4). This represents a quantity less than one whole.
Improper Fractions
An improper fraction has a numerator that is greater than or equal to its denominator (e.g., 5/4). This represents a quantity equal to or greater than one whole.
Mixed Numbers
A mixed number combines a whole number with a proper fraction (e.g., 1 1/4). The calculator can convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers.
Fraction Operations
The calculator performs the following operations:
Addition (+)
To add fractions, they must have the same denominator. If denominators are different, find a common denominator first.
Subtraction (-)
Similar to addition, fractions must have the same denominator for subtraction. Convert to equivalent fractions with a common denominator if needed.
Multiplication (×)
Multiply numerators together and denominators together. Simplify the result if possible.
Division (÷)
Multiply the first fraction by the reciprocal of the second fraction (flip the numerator and denominator of the second fraction).
Simplifying Fractions
The calculator automatically reduces fractions to their simplest form by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD). A fraction is in simplest form when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1.
Practical Applications
Fraction calculations are essential in many real-world situations:
- Cooking and baking measurements
- Construction and woodworking measurements
- Financial calculations involving ratios
- Scientific measurements and data analysis
- Time calculations (hours, minutes, seconds)