Multiplying Mixed Numbers: 1 1/2 x 2 1/3
To multiply mixed numbers, we need to convert them into improper fractions first. Let's break down the process:
Step 1: Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions
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1 1/2: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (2) and add the numerator (1). Keep the same denominator. (1 * 2) + 1 = 3. So, 1 1/2 becomes 3/2.
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2 1/3: Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (3) and add the numerator (1). Keep the same denominator. (2 * 3) + 1 = 7. So, 2 1/3 becomes 7/3.
Step 2: Multiply the fractions
Now that we have improper fractions, we can multiply them:
(3/2) * (7/3)
Step 3: Simplify the fraction
Multiply the numerators and the denominators:
(3 * 7) / (2 * 3) = 21/6
Simplify the fraction by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor, which is 3:
21/6 = 7/2
Conclusion
Therefore, 1 1/2 x 2 1/3 is equal to 7/2. You can also express this as a mixed number, which would be 3 1/2.