Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cross-multiply

verb

/krɒsˈmɒltɪplaɪ/

Definition

To multiply the numerator of one fraction by the denominator of another fraction, and vice versa, often used to compare fractions or solve equations.

Examples

To compare the two fractions, you can cross-multiply and see which one is larger.
In the equation \(frac{a}{b} = frac{c}{d}\), you cross-multiply to get \(a imes d = b imes c\).

Meaning

Cross-multiplication is a mathematical technique primarily used to eliminate fractions from equations, making it easier to solve for an unknown variable.