When we divide by 2, we are halving something.
When we divide by 3, we are finding a third of it.
When we divide by 4, we are finding a quarter of it.
Dividing by 2 is the same as multiplying by 1/2.
Dividing by 3 is the same as multiplying by 1/3.
Dividing by 4 is the same as multiplying by 1/4 etc.
Example
Work out the following.
1 | ÷ | 4 |
9 |
Answer
This is the same as
1 | × | 1 |
9 | 4 |
1 × 1 = 1
9 × 4 = 36
The answer is
1 |
36 |
which we write as 1/36.
Want a bit more help with this before you begin? Why not watch this short video?