Both common fractions and algebraic expressions may be simplified, or written in simplest form.
A common fraction is in simplest form when the greatest common factor of the numerator and the denominator is 1.
| Divide by this value for 1. |
| is expressed in simplest form as . |
Many years ago, expressing a fraction in simplest form was called "reducing the fraction." However, the fraction is not reduced — its value stays the same! That's why we no longer use the expression "reducing the fraction."
An expression is in simplest form when no terms can be combined.
| 3 + 10 = 13 |
| Thus, 3 + (2 × 5) , expressed in simplest form, is 13. |
Also called lowest terms, lowest terms of a fraction.
See also greatest common factor, order of operations, simplify..