Module 15: Background You’ll Need 2

  • Simplify complex fractions

complex fractions

A complex fraction is a fraction in which the numerator and/or the denominator include fractions.

An example of a complex fraction is shown below:

[latex]\dfrac{\frac{1}{2}}{\frac{3}{4}}[/latex]

In keeping with the order of operations, you should evaluate the numerator and the denominator separately before dividing the numerator by the denominator. When using a calculator, use parentheses to indicate that the operations in the numerator and the denominator should be completed first, as shown:

[latex](1/2)/(3/4) \approx 0.667[/latex]

definition