Definition of common fraction and examples.

A common fraction, also called vulgar fraction, is a fraction whose numerator and denominator are integers.

A common fraction can be used to name part of a whole or set.

For example, John did not eat 5/8 of the whole pizza. 5/8 is a common fraction. Notice that 5 and 8 are integers.

A common fraction can be used to express a division. 4 people doing business together owe a bank 2500 dollars. If they share the debt equally, how much money does each person owe the bank ?

Each person owes -2500/4 dollars and -2500/4 dollars is a common fraction.

A common fraction can be used to name a ratio.

In a class, the ratio of boys to girls is 4:3 or 4/3

4/3 is a common fraction.