Understanding Mixed Numbers: Conversion, Calculation, and Application

mixed number

A mixed number is a number that includes both a whole number and a fraction

A mixed number is a number that includes both a whole number and a fraction. It is written in the form of a whole number followed by a fraction. For example, 3 1/2 is a mixed number, where 3 is the whole number part and 1/2 is the fractional part.

To understand mixed numbers better, let’s break down the parts:

1. Whole number: It represents a complete number without any fraction or decimal part. For example, in the mixed number 2 3/4, 2 is the whole number.

2. Fraction: It represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (the number above the fraction line) and a denominator (the number below the fraction line). In the mixed number 2 3/4, the fraction 3/4 is the fractional part.

To convert a mixed number into an improper fraction:
1. Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction and add the numerator.
2. The result becomes the new numerator.
3. The denominator remains the same.

For example, let’s convert the mixed number 2 3/4 into an improper fraction:
Step 1: Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (4) and add the numerator (3):
2 x 4 + 3 = 8 + 3 = 11

Step 2: The numerator becomes 11 and the denominator remains 4.

So, the improper fraction equivalent of 2 3/4 is 11/4.

To convert an improper fraction into a mixed number:
1. Divide the numerator by the denominator.
2. The whole number part of the result becomes the whole number in the mixed number.
3. The remainder becomes the numerator of the new fraction, and the denominator remains the same.

For example, let’s convert the improper fraction 11/4 into a mixed number:
Step 1: Divide the numerator (11) by the denominator (4):
11 ÷ 4 = 2 remainder 3

Step 2: The whole number part of the result (2) becomes the whole number in the mixed number.

Step 3: The remainder (3) becomes the numerator of the new fraction, and the denominator (4) remains the same.

So, the mixed number equivalent of 11/4 is 2 3/4.

Mixed numbers are commonly used when dealing with measurements, such as lengths, time, or quantities that include both whole numbers and fractions. It is important to understand how to convert between mixed numbers and improper fractions, as it allows for better mathematical calculations and comparisons.

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