Definition of Cancellation
The operation of canceling out common factors in both the numerator and the denominator is called Cancellation.
More About Cancellation
- When common factors exist on both sides of an equation, canceling can be done.
- By adding and subtracting common factors to both sides of an equation, canceling can be done.
Example of Cancellation
First, the numerator and the denominator are written as a product of their factors. Then the common factors are cancelled.
Video Examples:Multiplying Fractions Using Cancellation
Solved Example on Cancellation
Ques: Solve for the variable in the equation 5a = - 25
A. - 20
C. - 30
D. - 5
Correct Answer: D
Step 1: 5a = - 25 [Original equation.
Step 2: (5a)/5 = - 25/5 [Divide both sides by 5.]
Step 3:a = - 5