Write each fraction in lowest terms. 4/12

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the numerator and denominator of the fraction. Here, the numerator is 4 and the denominator is 12.
2. Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator. The GCD is the largest number that divides both 4 and 12 without leaving a remainder.
3. Divide both the numerator and the denominator by the GCD to simplify the fraction.
4. Write the simplified fraction using the results from the division.
5. Verify that the fraction is in lowest terms by checking that the numerator and denominator have no common divisors other than 1.

Key Concepts

Simplifying Fractions

Simplifying fractions involves reducing the numerator and denominator to their smallest whole numbers while keeping the same value. This is done by dividing both by their greatest common divisor (GCD). For example, 4/12 can be simplified by dividing both 4 and 12 by 4.

Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)

The GCD of two numbers is the largest positive integer that divides both numbers without leaving a remainder. Finding the GCD is essential for simplifying fractions because it helps identify the factor by which both numerator and denominator can be divided.

Numerator and Denominator

A fraction consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number). Understanding their roles is crucial because simplification requires dividing both parts by the same number to maintain the fraction's value.