What does the term "Keep, Switch, Flip" refer to in fraction division?

The term "Keep, Switch, Flip" is a mnemonic that refers specifically to the process of dividing fractions. When dividing one fraction by another, the first step is to "keep" the numerator of the first fraction as it is. The second step involves "switching" the operation from division to multiplication. Finally, "flip" refers to taking the reciprocal of the second fraction, inverting it so the numerator becomes the denominator and vice versa.

For example, if you need to divide ( \frac{2}{3} ) by ( \frac{4}{5} ), you would keep ( \frac{2}{3} ), switch the division to multiplication, and flip ( \frac{4}{5} ) to ( \frac{5}{4} ). This results in the multiplication of ( \frac{2}{3} ) by ( \frac{5}{4} ), leading to the calculation ( \frac{2 \times 5}{3 \times 4} = \frac{10}{12} ), which can be simplified further.

Understanding this process is crucial in fraction division as it provides a systematic approach to solving problems accurately and efficiently.