Multiplying Fractions: 1 1/3 x 5/8
This article will walk you through the steps of multiplying the mixed number 1 1/3 by the fraction 5/8. We'll break down the process and simplify the result to its simplest form.
Converting the Mixed Number
First, we need to convert the mixed number 1 1/3 into an improper fraction.
- Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (3): 1 * 3 = 3
- Add the numerator (1): 3 + 1 = 4
- Keep the same denominator (3): 4/3
Now we have the equation: 4/3 x 5/8
Multiplying the Fractions
To multiply fractions, we simply multiply the numerators and the denominators:
- Numerator: 4 * 5 = 20
- Denominator: 3 * 8 = 24
This gives us the fraction 20/24.
Simplifying the Fraction
The fraction 20/24 can be simplified by finding the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator, which is 4. We divide both the numerator and denominator by 4:
- Numerator: 20 / 4 = 5
- Denominator: 24 / 4 = 6
Therefore, the simplified answer is 5/6.
Conclusion
The product of 1 1/3 and 5/8, in its simplest form, is 5/6.