Multiplying Mixed Numbers: 1 1/2 x 2 1/3
Multiplying mixed numbers can seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, it becomes much easier. Here's how to multiply 1 1/2 x 2 1/3:
1. Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
- 1 1/2: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (2), and add the numerator (1). Keep the same denominator. This gives us (1*2 + 1)/2 = 3/2.
- 2 1/3: Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (3), and add the numerator (1). Keep the same denominator. This gives us (2*3 + 1)/3 = 7/3.
Now we have the problem: 3/2 x 7/3
2. Multiply the Numerators and Denominators
- Multiply the numerators: 3 x 7 = 21
- Multiply the denominators: 2 x 3 = 6
This gives us 21/6.
3. Simplify the Result (If Possible)
- Find the greatest common factor (GCF) of 21 and 6, which is 3.
- Divide both the numerator and denominator by 3: 21/3 = 7, and 6/3 = 2.
This gives us the simplified answer: 7/2.
4. Convert Back to a Mixed Number (Optional)
- Divide the numerator (7) by the denominator (2): 7 ÷ 2 = 3 with a remainder of 1.
- The quotient (3) becomes the whole number, the remainder (1) becomes the numerator, and the denominator remains the same (2).
This gives us the final answer in mixed number form: 3 1/2.
Therefore, 1 1/2 x 2 1/3 = 7/2 or 3 1/2.