How to Simplify the Fraction 3/2 (and as a Mixed Fraction)

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In this video we will simplify (reduce) the fraction 3/2 into its simplest form. The key to simplifying fractions is to find a number that goes into both the numerator and denominator.

The number will divide evenly into both 3 and 2.

We can list all of the factors that divide evenly into 3 and 2. When we do so we see that is the highest common factor for both numbers.

If we divide 3 by we get 2.
If we divide 2 by we get 1.

This means that we can simplify 3/2 to 1 1/2. The fractions are equivalent. If you check on a calculator you will find that they have the same decimal value. So we haven't changed the quantity, just the way the fraction is expressed.

Note that since the numerator in 3/2 is greater than the denominator we can also change 3/2 to a mixed fraction. As a mixed fraction 3/2 can be written as 1 1/2.