Cancellation Math Example 1
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 1
easySimplify \(\dfrac{4 \times 6}{4 \times 3}\) using cancellation.
Solution
- 1 Write as: \(\dfrac{4 \times 6}{4 \times 3}\).
- 2 The 4 appears in both top and bottom (common factor).
- 3 Cancel: \(\dfrac{\cancel{4} \times 6}{\cancel{4} \times 3} = \dfrac{6}{3}\).
- 4 Simplify: \(\dfrac{6}{3} = 2\).
Answer
2
Cancellation uses \(\frac{ac}{bc} = \frac{a}{b}\). The common factor \(c\) cancels from top and bottom.
About Cancellation
Cancellation is the process of removing a common factor from the numerator and denominator of a fraction, or from both sides of an equation, to simplify. It works because dividing both parts by the same nonzero number leaves an equivalent but simpler form.
Learn more about Cancellation →