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P.1 Identify equivalent fractions

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What are equivalent fractions?

Equivalent fractions are fractions that may look different but have the same value or represent the same part of a whole.

Examples:
  • 1/2 is the same as 2/4
  • 3/6 is the same as 1/2
  • 4/8 is the same as 2/4
Note

If two fractions name the same amount of a shape, a number line, or a set, they are equivalent.

How to identify equivalent fractions

To identify equivalent fractions, compare how much of the whole is shaded, covered, or represented by each fraction. You can also use multiplication or division to check.

Steps:
  • Multiply or divide the numerator and denominator of a fraction by the same number.
  • Example: Multiply both parts of 1/3 by 2 → 2/6.
  • Check: both 1/3 and 2/6 represent the same value.
Note

You must always multiply or divide the numerator and denominator by the same number. This keeps the value of the fraction the same.

Common equivalent fractions

Here are some fractions and their common equivalents that you will see often in math:

Fraction List:
  • 1/2 → 2/4, 3/6, 4/8
  • 1/3 → 2/6, 3/9
  • 1/4 → 2/8, 3/12
  • 2/3 → 4/6, 6/9
  • 3/4 → 6/8, 9/12
Note

These fractions show the same value but are written in different forms. Memorizing a few common equivalents can make solving problems faster.

Using equivalent fractions in math

We use equivalent fractions when comparing, adding, or subtracting fractions. They help us work with fractions that have different denominators.

Examples:
  • 1/2 = 2/4. You can replace 1/2 with 2/4 if you need a denominator of 4.
  • 3/6 = 1/2. Use the simpler form 1/2 when solving problems.
  • 2/3 = 4/6. This makes it easier to add with another fraction that has 6 as the denominator.
Note

Simplifying fractions means writing them in their smallest equivalent form. This makes fractions easier to read and compare.

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