Question

Simplify the fraction. $$\frac{-15}{125}$$

Short answer

The simplified form of \(-\frac{15}{125}\) is \(-\frac{3}{25}\).

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Numerator and Denominator

In this fraction \(-\frac{15}{125}\), -15 is the numerator and 125 is the denominator.

Determine the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)

The task is to look for the greatest number that can divide both -15 and 125. In this case, it is 5.

Divide the Numerator and Denominator by the GCD

Divide both -15 and 125 by their GCD, which is 5, to get \(-\frac{15 \div 5}{125 \div 5} = -\frac{3}{25}\).

Check Your Work

Now, multiply the reduced numbers 3 and 25 by the GCD (5) to ensure it gives back the original numerator and denominator. In this case, \((-3 * 5) = -15\) and \( (25 * 5) = 125 \), therefore, \(-\frac{3}{25} = -\frac{15}{125}\).