Definition Of Cancellation

The operation of canceling out common factors in both the numerator and the denominator is called Cancellation.

More About Cancellation

When common factors exist on both sides of an equation, canceling can be done.
By adding and subtracting common factors to both sides of an equation, canceling can be done.

Example of Cancellation

First, the numerator and the denominator are written as a product of their factors. Then the common factors are cancelled. 

Video Examples:Multiplying Fractions Using Cancellation

Solved Example on Cancellation

Ques: Solve for the variable in the equation 5a = - 25

Choices:

A. - 20 
B. 5
C. - 30
D. - 5
Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1: 5a = - 25 [Original equation.
Step 2: (5a)/5 = - 25/5 [Divide both sides by 5.]
Step 3:a = - 5 

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