Dividing Fractions: 1 1/4 Divided by 5
Dividing fractions can seem tricky, but with the right steps, it becomes straightforward. Let's tackle the problem of 1 1/4 divided by 5 and find the answer as a fraction.
Step 1: Convert Mixed Number to a Fraction
First, we need to convert the mixed number 1 1/4 into an improper fraction.
- Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (4): 1 * 4 = 4
- Add the numerator (1): 4 + 1 = 5
- Keep the same denominator (4): 5/4
Now our problem is 5/4 divided by 5.
Step 2: Convert Whole Number to a Fraction
We can rewrite 5 as a fraction by putting it over 1: 5/1.
Step 3: Invert the Second Fraction and Multiply
When dividing fractions, we invert the second fraction and multiply. This means we'll flip 5/1 to 1/5. Now our problem is (5/4) * (1/5)
Step 4: Multiply Numerators and Denominators
- Multiply the numerators: 5 * 1 = 5
- Multiply the denominators: 4 * 5 = 20
This gives us 5/20.
Step 5: Simplify the Fraction
The fraction 5/20 can be simplified. Both the numerator and denominator are divisible by 5.
- 5 ÷ 5 = 1
- 20 ÷ 5 = 4
Therefore, 1 1/4 divided by 5 is equal to 1/4.