Understanding the Math Behind Fraction Division | Maths Explanation for Java Kids
Java makes it easy to perform arithmetic operations like dividing fractions. Whether you're simplifying fractions, multiplying them, or coding a math class project, Java provides clear syntax and powerful tools for beginners and students alike.
Dividing fractions in Java is a great way to combine coding with math skills. In this tutorial, junior secondary students will learn how to use Java to divide fractions step-by-step. We'll explore how to invert and multiply fractions, write a Java class for fraction operations, and understand the logic behind the algorithm.
Division is the inverse operation of multiplication; That is exactly what we'll do with for fractions.
Invert the fractions that come after a division sign, as well as change the division sign to multiplication, and then
follow through with multiplication, as already explained in the
Multiplying Fractions with Java tutorial.
Algorithm Steps to Divide Fractions in Java
Say we are to implement a Java algorithm to divide the given fractional expression
21/8 ÷ 7/2;
Inverting this will yield
21/8 ÷ 7/2;
Then we can go ahead and multiply.
Create a new Java class file;
Call it DivideFraction.
Type out the adjoining Java code for dividing fractions.
Note: You can comment out the MultiplyFraction Java object code in the main class from the previous lesson or simply continue from where it stopped.
So! Java Fun Practice Exercise - Divide Fractions
As a fun practice exercise, feel free to try out your own fractions with different numerators and denominators, and see how the Java code divides those fractions.
Java Code for Dividing Fractions - Class File
import java.util.List;
public class DivideFraction extends MultiplyFraction {
public DivideFraction(List<Integer> num, List<Integer> denom){
super(num, denom);
}
public int[] doDivide(){
int temp;
// Invert every other fraction but the first
for(int i=1; i<numerators.size(); i++){
temp = numerators.get(i);
numerators.set(i, denominators.get(i));
denominators.set(i, temp);
}
return doMultiply();
}
}
Java Code for Dividing Fractions - Main Class
import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.List;
public class Algebra {
public static void main(String[] args) {
int numerator;
int denominator;
List<Integer> numerators;
List<Integer> denominators;
int[] solution;
System.out.println("Welcome to our demonstration sequels");
System.out.println("Hope you enjoy (and follow) the lessons.");
System.out.println("");
/*
* Dividing fractions
*/
numerators = new ArrayList<>();
numerators.add(16);
numerators.add(9);
numerators.add(640);
numerators.add(7);
denominators = new ArrayList<>();
denominators.add(9);
denominators.add(20);
denominators.add(27);
denominators.add(20);
System.out.println("Solving:");
// Print as fraction
for (int n : numerators) {
System.out.printf("%13d", n);
}
System.out.println();
System.out.printf("%12s", " ");
for (int i = 0; i < numerators.size() - 1; i++) {
System.out.print("― ÷ ");
}
System.out.printf("%2s", "―");
System.out.println();
for (int d : denominators) {
System.out.printf("%13d", d);
}
System.out.println();
// use the DivideFraction class
DivideFraction div_fract = new DivideFraction(numerators, denominators);
solution = div_fract.doDivide();
numerator = solution[0];
denominator = solution[1];
System.out.println();
System.out.printf("%25d%n", numerator);
System.out.printf("%24s%n", "Answer = ―");
System.out.printf("%25d%n", denominator);
System.out.println("\n\n");
}
}