What is the term for the process of simplifying a fraction?

The process of simplifying a fraction is commonly referred to as reduction. When you reduce a fraction, you divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which results in a simpler form of the fraction that retains the same value. For example, reducing the fraction 4/8 by dividing both the numerator and denominator by 4 gives you 1/2. This process helps in making calculations easier and is essential in both mathematics and practical applications like cooking or finance, where fractions are frequently used.

In contrast, the other terms do not align with the concept of simplifying a fraction. Multiplication refers to increasing values by combining them, increment relates to increasing by a specific amount, and decomposition involves breaking down expressions or numbers into their constituent parts.