Dividing Fractions: 1 1/2 Divided by 1/3
Dividing fractions can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, it becomes much easier. Let's explore how to divide 1 1/2 by 1/3.
1. Convert Mixed Number to a Fraction
First, we need to convert the mixed number 1 1/2 into an improper fraction. To do this, we multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (2) and add the numerator (1). This gives us 3. We then keep the same denominator (2). Therefore, 1 1/2 becomes 3/2.
2. Flip the Second Fraction
The next step involves flipping the second fraction, 1/3. This means we switch the numerator and the denominator to get 3/1. This is known as finding the reciprocal of the fraction.
3. Multiply the Fractions
Now, we multiply the first fraction (3/2) by the reciprocal of the second fraction (3/1):
(3/2) * (3/1) = (3 * 3) / (2 * 1) = 9/2
4. Simplify the Result (Optional)
Finally, we can simplify the improper fraction 9/2 by converting it back into a mixed number.
9/2 = 4 1/2
Therefore, 1 1/2 divided by 1/3 equals 4 1/2.