It is important to remember that fractions can equal whole numbers that are greater (larger) than one. When we can change fractions into whole numbers, we make solving equations easier. Since it is always good to make an equation easier to solve, we must look for any opportunity to change fractions into whole numbers.
Fractions can be changed into whole numbers when the top number (numerator) is an exact number of times greater than the bottom number (denominator). For example, 
cannot be changed into a whole number, because 4 is not an exact number of times greater than 3. However, 
can be changed into a whole number because 10 is exactly 2 times greater than 5. Since 10 is 2 times greater than 5, we know that 
= 2. The same holds true for all fractions. If the top number is an exact number of times greater than the bottom, then the fraction is equal to that number of times. Here is another example:
= 4
This tells us that 12 is exactly 4 times greater than 3. Remember that the top number has to be an exact number of times greater than the bottom number in order for a fraction to be changed into a whole number. This means that no fraction with a top number that is less (smaller) than the bottom number can be converted into a whole number.
