Question

Write each fraction in the simplest form. If the fraction is already in the simplest form, write the simplest form.

$\frac{36}{12}$

Short answer

The simplest form is: $\frac{36}{12}=3$.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Given information.

Given fraction is:

$\frac{36}{12}$

Step 2. Write the concept.

A fraction is in simplest form when the numerator and denominator cannot be any smaller, while still being whole numbers.

To simplify a fraction, divide the numerator and denominator by the greatest number that will divide the numerator and denominator exactly.

Step 3. Write factors of numerator and denominator.

$$\begin{gathered} 36=2\times 2\times 3\times 3 \\ 12=2\times 2\times 3 \end{gathered}$$

Step 4. Simplify the fraction.

The fraction $\frac{36}{12}$can be simplified as in below.

$$\begin{gathered} \frac{36}{12}=\frac{2\times 2\times 3\times 3}{2\times 2\times 3} \\ =\frac{3}{1} \\ =3 \end{gathered}$$