Problem 48 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Perform the indicated operation. Where possible, reduce the answer to its lowest terms. $$\frac{1}{8} \cdot \frac{2}{3}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The result of the multiplication of the fractions \(\frac{1}{8}\) and \(\frac{2}{3}\) is \(\frac{1}{12}\)

Step 1: Multiply Numerators

Multiply the numerators of the two fractions together. In this case, multiply 1 and 2 together to get 2.

Step 2: Multiply Denominators

Multiply the denominators of the two fractions together. In this case, multiply 8 and 3 together to get 24.

Step 3: Construct Resulting Fraction

The resulting fraction is built from the results of the multiplication of the numerators and denominators. So, after multiplying, we get the fraction \(\frac{2}{24}\).

Step 4: Simplify the Fraction

Simplify this fraction to its lowest terms by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor, which is 2. After dividing, we get \(\frac{1}{12}\).