Multiplying Fractions: 1 1/2 x 1/3
Multiplying fractions can seem daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward. Let's break down how to solve the problem of 1 1/2 x 1/3.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Number to a Fraction
First, we need to convert the mixed number, 1 1/2, into an improper fraction.
- Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (2): 1 x 2 = 2
- Add the numerator of the fraction (1): 2 + 1 = 3
- Keep the same denominator: 3/2
Now our problem looks like this: 3/2 x 1/3
Step 2: Multiply the Numerators and Denominators
To multiply fractions, we simply multiply the numerators and the denominators:
- Numerators: 3 x 1 = 3
- Denominators: 2 x 3 = 6
This gives us the fraction 3/6.
Step 3: Simplify the Fraction (If Possible)
The fraction 3/6 can be simplified because both the numerator and denominator share a common factor of 3:
- Divide both numerator and denominator by 3: 3 ÷ 3 = 1 and 6 ÷ 3 = 2
Therefore, the simplified answer to 1 1/2 x 1/3 is 1/2.