Numerator and denominator definition

Question

I am studying fractions and how to calculate them and the terms numerator and denominator appear a lot when I read about it, but I do not know the numerator and denominator definition.

i.e.

$$ \frac{4}{2} + \frac{8}{2} = \frac{4+8}{2} = \frac{12}{2} $$

Would I like to know your definition?

@EthanBolker I tried, but the explanations are complicated for me and I could not understand. — gato, Sep 01 '18 at 14:14

score 2 · Accepted Answer · answered Sep 01 '18 at 14:11

2

In the fraction $$\frac{p}{q}$$ where $q\ne 0$

$p$ is called Numerator and $q$ is called denominator

answered Sep 01 '18 at 14:11

Deepesh Meena

4,408

$q$ can be less than zero $q<0$ ? – gato Sep 01 '18 at 14:22
It can, but this is generally considered an improper fraction (which might matter or not). You can always change the signs of both denominator and numerator to get an equal fraction, equally in its lowest terms – Deepesh Meena Sep 01 '18 at 14:24

score 1 · Answer 2 · answered Mar 21 '23 at 11:53

I'd like to point out more elaborate definition on the matter.

A numerator is an integer above the vinculum, also known as the dividend if the fraction is interpreted as division.

A denominator is a natural number below the vinculum, also known as the divisor if fraction is interpreted as division.

If $\gcd(p,q)=1$, with the definitions above, then the fraction is irreducible and is in its canonical form.

Numerator and denominator definition

2 Answers2