FractionsEquivalent fractions

Calculations can be carried out using fractions of shapes and quantities. Mixed fractions can be added or subtracted to find the number of fractional parts in a mixed number.

Part ofApplications of MathsNumeracy skills

Equivalent fractions

Watch this video to learn about equivalent fractions

A fraction can be written in different ways and still mean the same thing. These are called equivalent fractions.

Look at the shaded areas in these rectangles.

Diagram using rectangles to show equivalent fractions

So \(\frac{3}{5} = \frac{6}{{10}}\).

You can produce lots of equivalent fractions by multiplying or dividing the top and bottom by the same number.

Flow diagram showing fractions being divided by 2, 3 then 4.

If you are asked to fill in a missing number, remember that the top and bottom must be multiplied or divided by the same number.

Question

What is the missing number? \(\frac{4}{5} = \frac{?}{{15}}\)