How to find equivalent fractions
Multiply both the numerator and the denominator by the same nonzero number. The pieces become smaller, but the share of the whole stays the same.
(11 × 2) / (17 × 2) = 22/34
More examples
| Multiplier | Calculation | Equivalent fraction |
|---|---|---|
| × 2 | (11 × 2) / (17 × 2) | 22/34 |
| × 3 | (11 × 3) / (17 × 3) | 33/51 |
| × 4 | (11 × 4) / (17 × 4) | 44/68 |
| × 5 | (11 × 5) / (17 × 5) | 55/85 |
| × 10 | (11 × 10) / (17 × 10) | 110/170 |
Why the value stays the same
Multiplying both parts by the same number is the same as multiplying the fraction by one. For example, 2/2 = 1, so multiplying by 2/2 cannot change its value.
11/17 × 2/2 = 22/34
Check two fractions
Cross-multiply to compare them. If the two products match, the fractions are equivalent. Their denominators must be nonzero.
11 × 34 = 374, and 22 × 17 = 374
A common mistake
Adding the same number to the numerator and denominator does not generally produce an equivalent fraction. Use multiplication or division of both parts by the same nonzero factor.