# Math Help - dividing fractions

1. ## dividing fractions

hi,
im not too sure in doing this fraction correctly:

as you can see i have put my workings under the question but i don't think its right. could someone please confirm if im correct or not! if i am wrong could you please point me in the right direction on how to solve this please.

thanks!

2. No, it's incorrect.

Remember that $\displaystyle \frac{a}{b} \div \frac{c}{d} = \frac{a}{b} \times \frac{d}{c}$.

You should also note that there is a common factor in the second fraction which you can cancel, and will make the problem unwravel...

3. so i would get 2x+1/2 x 4/4x+2?
if so how would i cancel the common factors? are the common factors 2x and 4x, 4 and 2??

4. Start by factorising $\displaystyle 4x + 2$...

5. 2x+1

6. It's actually $\displaystyle 2(2x + 1)$.

Now what cancels?

7. the 2 and 2 to make 1(x+1)?

8. ## dividing by fractions

Hello Andyboy,
Putting Provit post into math english .When you divide by a fraction you multiply by the inverse of that fraction.

Example 1/2 divided by 3/4 = 1/2 times 4/3 = 4/6 = 2/3.
In this problem do the same and simplify. You should arrive at the simple answer

bjh

9. Originally Posted by bjhopper
Hello Andyboy,
Putting Provit post into math english .When you divide by a fraction you multiply by the inverse of that fraction.

Example 1/2 divided by 3/4 = 1/2 times 4/3 = 4/6 = 2/3.
In this problem do the same and simplify. You should arrive at the simple answer

bjh

I understand now!
Would I get 8x+4/8x+4
therefore it would =1??

10. exactly

bjh