Definition

Fraction

A fraction is a way of representing a part of a whole or, more generally, any number of equal parts. It is written in the form ab\frac{a}{b}, where b0b \neq 0. The value aa is called the numerator (the number of parts being considered or included) and bb is called the denominator (the total number of equal parts that make up the whole). The horizontal line separating the numerator from the denominator is called the fraction bar, and it also indicates division: ab\frac{a}{b} means a÷ba \div b. Understanding fractions—including how to find equivalent fractions, simplify them, add and subtract them, and perform multiplication and division with them—is an essential arithmetic skill that underpins success in algebra.

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Updated 2026-05-02

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Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

Ch.1 Foundations - Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

Algebra

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Ch.6 Polynomials - Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

Ch.8 Rational Expressions and Equations - Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

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