Question

Can multiplying two fractions result in a product smaller than either one of the factors?

Explain your answer using at least three examples.

Answer 1

Yes, it can. For example, 2/3 x 1/8 = 2/24; 9/10 x 5/6 = 45/60, and 3/8 x 4/5 = 12/40. These products are less than all the factors of the equations.

Answer 2

Sometimes, fractions can be written in 'improper' form, meaning that the top number (numerator) is bigger than the bottom number (denominator). So anything multiplied by a fraction like this will give a bigger number.

For example:
5 × 2/1 = 10
10 x 10/1 = 100