To express the number 15 as a fraction in the lowest terms, we can follow these steps:
- Understanding the Concept of Fractions: A fraction consists of a numerator and a denominator. In this case, we can consider 15 as a fraction by placing it over 1. Therefore, we can represent 15 as:
- Simplifying the Fraction: The fraction 15/1 is already in its simplest form. In mathematics, a fraction is considered to be in its lowest terms when the numerator and denominator have no common factors other than 1.
- Checking for Common Factors: For the fraction 15/1, the numerator is 15 and the denominator is 1. The only divisor of 1 is 1 itself. Since there are no common factors between 15 and 1 other than 1, we conclude that the fraction cannot be simplified further.
- Conclusion: Therefore, the number 15 can be expressed as a fraction in the lowest terms as:
15 = 15/1
15/1
In summary, whenever you want to express a whole number like 15 as a fraction, simply place it over 1, and you will have it in its simplest form.