The purpose of simplifying fractions is to express a fraction in its most reduced form. This makes it easier to compare and perform operations with fractions.
To simplify fractions, you need to find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator, and then divide both by the GCF. This will result in a fraction that cannot be reduced any further.
Yes, fractions with variables can be simplified. You would follow the same steps as simplifying fractions with numbers, but you would need to factor the variables first to find the GCF.
Simplifying and reducing fractions are essentially the same thing. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they both refer to expressing a fraction in its most simplified form.
In scientific calculations, it is important to use simplified fractions to avoid errors and make calculations more efficient. Simplified fractions also make it easier to express and compare data in scientific experiments.
