Equivalent Fractions

6 min read · Updated September 26, 2026 · by the SolveCalcPro editorial team

Equivalent Fractions – feature image

Equivalent fractions have different numbers but the same value, like 1/2, 2/4 and 50/100. They are the reason you can add fractions with different denominators, compare fractions fairly and simplify answers. The core idea is simple: multiply or divide the top and bottom by the same number.

Making equivalent fractions

Multiply the numerator and denominator by the same non-zero number. 3/5 × 2/2 = 6/10, and 3/5 × 3/3 = 9/15. You are multiplying by 1, so the value does not change. The equivalent fractions calculator lists as many as you like.

Testing whether two fractions are equal

Cross-multiply. For 3/5 and 9/15: 3 × 15 = 45 and 5 × 9 = 45, so they are equal. For 2/3 and 5/8: 2 × 8 = 16 but 3 × 5 = 15, so they are not.

Finding a missing numerator

To solve 2/7 = x/35, notice that 7 × 5 = 35, so multiply the top by 5 as well: x = 10.

Comparing and ordering fractions

Rewrite the fractions with a common denominator. To compare 3/4 and 5/8: 3/4 = 6/8, so 3/4 is larger. To order 1/2, 2/3 and 3/5, use 30 as the denominator: 15/30, 20/30 and 18/30, giving 1/2 < 3/5 < 2/3.

Simplest form

Divide top and bottom by the greatest common factor to reach the simplest form. 18/24 ÷ 6 = 3/4. See how to simplify fractions.

Practice questions

Test yourself, then tap to check. Answers are calculated by the tools linked below.

  1. Simplify 12/18 and list equivalents.
    Show answer

    Simplest form: 2/3

  2. Add 2/3 + 3/4.
    Show answer

    Simplified fraction: 17/12

  3. Find the GCF and LCM of 18 and 24.
    Show answer

    GCF (greatest common factor): 6 · LCM (least common multiple): 72

Frequently asked questions

Are 2/3 and 4/6 equal?

Yes. Multiplying top and bottom of 2/3 by 2 gives 4/6.

Can I add the same number to top and bottom?

No. Only multiplying or dividing both by the same number keeps the value.

How many equivalent fractions does a fraction have?

Infinitely many.

Why does the common denominator help?

Pieces of the same size can be compared or added directly.

Try it yourself

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