Fraction Calculator: Simplifying 1 1/7 x 3 5/8
This article will guide you through the process of multiplying mixed numbers, specifically 1 1/7 x 3 5/8, using a fraction calculator.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
The first step in multiplying mixed numbers is to convert them into improper fractions. Here's how:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction.
For 1 1/7: 1 x 7 = 7 - Add the numerator to the result. 7 + 1 = 8
- Keep the same denominator. This gives us 8/7.
Similarly, for 3 5/8:
- 3 x 8 = 24
- 24 + 5 = 29
- 29/8
Now, our multiplication problem becomes: 8/7 x 29/8
Multiplying Fractions
To multiply fractions, we simply multiply the numerators and the denominators:
(8/7) x (29/8) = (8 x 29) / (7 x 8) = 232/56
Simplifying the Fraction
The fraction 232/56 can be simplified by finding the greatest common factor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator, which is 8.
Dividing both numerator and denominator by 8:
232/8 = 29 56/8 = 7
Therefore, the simplified answer is 29/7.
Converting Back to a Mixed Number (Optional)
You can convert the improper fraction 29/7 back to a mixed number:
- Divide the numerator (29) by the denominator (7). 29 / 7 = 4 with a remainder of 1
- The quotient (4) becomes the whole number part of the mixed number.
- The remainder (1) becomes the numerator of the fraction.
- The denominator remains the same.
Therefore, 29/7 is equivalent to 4 1/7.
Conclusion
By using a fraction calculator and following the steps above, you can confidently multiply mixed numbers and express the answer in either an improper fraction or a mixed number. Remember to always simplify your answer to its simplest form.