1 1/2 Divided By 1/2 As A Fraction

Jasonbradley

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Jun 17, 2024

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Dividing Fractions: 1 1/2 ÷ 1/2

Dividing fractions can seem tricky, but it's actually quite straightforward. Let's break down how to solve 1 1/2 ÷ 1/2.

Understanding the Problem

• 1 1/2 is a mixed number, which means it represents a whole number (1) plus a fraction (1/2).
• 1/2 is a proper fraction, where the numerator (1) is smaller than the denominator (2).

Converting to Improper Fractions

The first step is to convert the mixed number (1 1/2) into an improper fraction:

1. Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (2): 1 * 2 = 2
2. Add the numerator of the fraction (1): 2 + 1 = 3
3. Keep the same denominator (2): 3/2

Now, our problem becomes: 3/2 ÷ 1/2

The "Flip and Multiply" Rule

To divide fractions, we use the "flip and multiply" rule:

1. Flip the second fraction (the divisor). This means switching the numerator and denominator: 1/2 becomes 2/1.
2. Multiply the first fraction (the dividend) by the flipped second fraction: 3/2 * 2/1.

Simplifying the Multiplication

Now we have:

(3 * 2) / (2 * 1) = 6/2

Final Answer

Simplify the resulting fraction: 6/2 = 3

Therefore, 1 1/2 ÷ 1/2 = 3.