In a fraction, which term refers to the top number?

Prepare for the MSTEP 3rd Grade Math Test with interactive quizzes and multiple-choice questions. Get essential hints and in-depth explanations to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

In a fraction, which term refers to the top number?

Explanation:
In a fraction, we’re looking at parts of a whole. The top number shows how many parts we’re talking about, while the bottom number shows how many equal parts the whole is divided into. The term for the top number is the numerator. For example, in 3/4, three parts are being considered, so three is the numerator. The bottom number is the denominator, which would be four in that same fraction. Area isn’t used to describe the parts of a fraction, and a fraction is the whole thing, not the name of the top number.

In a fraction, we’re looking at parts of a whole. The top number shows how many parts we’re talking about, while the bottom number shows how many equal parts the whole is divided into. The term for the top number is the numerator. For example, in 3/4, three parts are being considered, so three is the numerator. The bottom number is the denominator, which would be four in that same fraction. Area isn’t used to describe the parts of a fraction, and a fraction is the whole thing, not the name of the top number.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy