Fractions on a Number Line • Topic 3 of 3

Equivalent Fractions

Equivalent fractions look different but have the same value.

1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6 = 4/8

To find equivalent fractions: multiply both top and bottom by the same number.

Example: 2/3 x (4/4) = 8/12. So 2/3 = 8/12.

1/2 = 2/4 = 4/8 (all equal!)1/22/44/8All shaded sections are the same size!1/2 x 2/2 = 2/4    1/2 x 4/4 = 4/8Multiply top AND bottom by same number.
1
Worked Example
Find a fraction equivalent to 2/3 with denominator 6.
SolutionMultiply top and bottom by 2: (2x2)/(3x2) = 4/6. So 2/3 = 4/6.
2
Worked Example
Is 3/4 equal to 6/8?
Solution3/4 x (2/2) = 6/8. Yes, they are equivalent fractions.
3
Worked Example
Find equivalent to 1/2 with denominator 8.
Solution1/2 x (4/4) = 4/8. So 1/2 = 4/8.

Key Points

  • Equivalent fractions = same amount, different notation.
  • Multiply both numerator and denominator by the same number.
  • 1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6 = 4/8 — all equal.
Tap an option to check your answer0 / 4
Q1.Equivalent fractions name the:
Explanation: Same amount.
Q2.$\tfrac12=$
Explanation: $\tfrac24$.
Q3.To make an equivalent fraction, multiply top and bottom by the:
Explanation: Same number.
Q4.$\tfrac24$ in simplest form is:
Explanation: $\tfrac12$.