How to Dividing Fractions by Whole Numbers in Recipes!

A step-by-step guide to dividing fractions by whole numbers

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Write the fraction as a division problem. For example, if the recipe calls for 3/4 cup of flour and you want to divide it by 2, write it as 3/4 ÷ 2.

Step 2: Convert the whole number to a fraction by putting it over 1. In this example, 2 becomes 2/1.

Step 3: Invert the fraction you are dividing by, also known as the denominator. To do this, switch the numerator and denominator of the fraction. In this example, 2/1 becomes 1/2.

Step 4: Multiply the two fractions. To multiply fractions, multiply the numerators (top numbers) and denominators (bottom numbers) separately. In this example, 3/4 x 1/2 = 3/8.

Step 5: Simplify the fraction. If the fraction can be simplified, divide both the numerator and denominator by the greatest common factor. In this example, 3/8 cannot be simplified any further, so the answer is 3/8 cup of flour.

So if the original recipe called for 3/4 cup of flour, and you wanted to divide it by 2, you would need 3/8 cup of flour instead.

Dividing Fractions by Whole Numbers in Recipes – Examples 1, 2

Solve the word problems according to the recipe.
1) What quantity of flour would you need to make a half very apple pie recipe?

Solution:

To cut the recipe in a half, divide \(\frac{1}{3}\) cup by 2.
Write 2 as an improper fraction. \(\frac{1}{3}÷\frac{2}{1}\)
Multiply by the reciprocal. \(\frac{1}{3}×\frac{2}{1}=\frac{2}{3}\) . So, you would need \(\frac{2}{3}\) of a cup of flour.
2) What quantity of sugar would you need to make a quarter very apple pie recipe?
To cut the recipe in a quarter, divide \(\frac{3}{5}\) cups by 4.
Write 2 as an improper fraction. \(\frac{3}{5}÷\frac{4}{1}\)
Multiply by the reciprocal. \(\frac{3}{5}×\frac{4}{1}=\frac{12}{5}\) .
Simplify it. \(\frac{12}{5}=2 \frac{2}{5}\). So, you would need \(2 \frac{2}{5}\) of a cup of sugar.