- Simplified fraction
- 5/6
- Approximate decimal
- 0.83
- Mixed number
- 5/6
How it works
Dividing can make a quantity larger
Dividing 3/4 by 1/2 gives 3/2: there are one and a half half-units in three quarters. Division by a positive fraction below one increases the result because the unit being counted is smaller.
Working with equivalent fractions
A fraction represents a numerator relative to a nonzero denominator. Simplifying changes the written form without changing that value. Use comparison mode when you need to order fractions, and arithmetic mode when combining them. For addition and subtraction, the denominators describe the unit being counted, so adding numerators and denominators independently does not produce the correct sum.
Fraction arithmetic: formula and assumptions
a/b + c/d = (ad + bc) / bd. Reduce using the greatest common divisor.
Fractions are evaluated using integer numerators and denominators. Mixed numbers and decimal inputs are supported.
Simplify a fraction: formula and assumptions
Reduced fraction = numerator/gcd ÷ denominator/gcd.
The sign is stored in the numerator, and the denominator is positive.
Compare fractions: formula and assumptions
Compare a × d with b × c for a/b and c/d.
Cross multiplication compares fractions without rounding to decimals.
Worked example
Using the Fraction arithmetic example:
- First fraction
- 1/2
- Operation
- Add
- Second fraction
- 1/3
a/b + c/d = (ad + bc) / bd. Reduce using the greatest common divisor.
Example result
Simplified fraction: 5/6
Approximate decimal: 0.83
Mixed number: 5/6
These are illustrative inputs. Change the values to explore a different scenario.
Formula references
References explain the underlying methods; they do not imply endorsement or individual professional review of Finflo.
Common questions
Can I enter a mixed number such as one and a half?
Yes. Enter 1 1/2. Fraction and supported decimal inputs are interpreted as rational values for the selected operation.
Why is comparing fractions better than rounding them first?
Cross multiplication compares the rational values directly. Rounding both to decimals can hide a small difference.
Prepared by Finflo. See our methodology and editorial policy.