LOWEST TERMS Meaning and
Definition
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"Lowest terms" is a phrase used in mathematics, specifically in the field of fractions and rational numbers. It refers to the representation of a fraction in its simplest or most reduced form. A fraction is said to be in lowest terms when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1. In other words, the fraction cannot be further simplified or reduced.
When a fraction is not in lowest terms, it means that the numerator and denominator share a common factor that can be canceled out. To put a fraction in lowest terms, one must find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator and then divide both by that number. This process ensures that no further reduction is possible.
For example, consider the fraction 4/8. To put it in lowest terms, we find that the GCD of 4 and 8 is 4. Dividing both the numerator and denominator by 4, we obtain 1/2, which is in lowest terms. Notice that both 4 and 8 share a common factor of 4, which allows us to simplify the fraction.
In summary, "lowest terms" refers to the simplest form of a fraction with no common factors between the numerator and denominator, obtained by dividing both by their greatest common divisor. This representation helps facilitate calculations, comparisons, and understanding of fractions.
Common Misspellings for LOWEST TERMS
- kowest terms
- powest terms
- oowest terms
- liwest terms
- lkwest terms
- llwest terms
- lpwest terms
- l0west terms
- l9west terms
- loqest terms
- loaest terms
- losest terms
- loeest terms
- lo3est terms
- lo2est terms
- lowwst terms
- lowsst terms
- lowdst terms
- lowrst terms
- low4st terms
