Dividing a Mixed Number by a Whole Number: 1 1/4 ÷ 4
This article will guide you through dividing the mixed number 1 1/4 by the whole number 4. Here's a step-by-step process:
Step 1: Convert the mixed number to an improper fraction
- Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (4): 1 x 4 = 4
- Add the numerator (1): 4 + 1 = 5
- Keep the same denominator (4): The improper fraction is 5/4.
Step 2: Divide the improper fraction by the whole number
- Dividing by a whole number is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. The reciprocal of 4 is 1/4.
- Multiply the improper fraction by the reciprocal: (5/4) * (1/4) = 5/16
Step 3: Simplify the fraction (if possible)
The fraction 5/16 is already in its simplest form as 5 and 16 share no common factors other than 1.
Answer:
Therefore, 1 1/4 divided by 4 is 5/16.