Multiplying Mixed Numbers: 1 1/2 x 3 1/2
This article will guide you through multiplying the mixed numbers 1 1/2 and 3 1/2 and expressing the result as a mixed number in its simplest form.
Converting to Improper Fractions
Before multiplying mixed numbers, we need to convert them into improper fractions.
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1 1/2: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (2) and add the numerator (1). This gives us 3. Keep the same denominator (2). So, 1 1/2 becomes 3/2.
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3 1/2: Multiply the whole number (3) by the denominator (2) and add the numerator (1). This gives us 7. Keep the same denominator (2). So, 3 1/2 becomes 7/2.
Multiplying the Improper Fractions
Now, we multiply the two improper fractions:
(3/2) x (7/2) = (3 x 7) / (2 x 2) = 21/4
Converting Back to a Mixed Number
The result, 21/4, is an improper fraction. To convert it back to a mixed number, we divide the numerator (21) by the denominator (4):
- 21 divided by 4 equals 5 with a remainder of 1.
This means the mixed number is 5 1/4.
Final Answer
Therefore, 1 1/2 x 3 1/2 expressed as a mixed number in its simplest form is 5 1/4.