Dividing Fractions: 1 1/4 Divided by 7/8
Dividing fractions can seem tricky, but it's actually a straightforward process. Here's how to solve 1 1/4 divided by 7/8:
1. Convert Mixed Number to a Fraction
First, we need to convert the mixed number, 1 1/4, to 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 7/8.
2. Invert the Second Fraction and Multiply
The key to dividing fractions is to invert (flip) the second fraction and multiply.
- Invert 7/8 to 8/7
- Multiply 5/4 by 8/7: (5/4) * (8/7)
3. Simplify and Calculate
Now we have a multiplication problem:
- (5 * 8) / (4 * 7)
- 40 / 28
Finally, we can simplify the fraction by dividing both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor, which is 4:
- 40 / 4 = 10
- 28 / 4 = 7
Therefore, 1 1/4 divided by 7/8 is equal to 10/7.
Conclusion
Dividing fractions might appear complex at first, but by following these simple steps, you can solve any division problem with fractions. Remember, invert the second fraction and multiply, then simplify the result if possible.