Multiplying Fractions: 1 1/2 x 4/5
This article will guide you through the steps of multiplying the mixed number 1 1/2 by the fraction 4/5.
Step 1: Convert the mixed number to an improper fraction.
To convert 1 1/2 to an improper fraction, we multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (2) and add the numerator (1). This gives us 3, which becomes the new numerator. The denominator stays the same. Therefore, 1 1/2 is equivalent to 3/2.
Step 2: Multiply the numerators and the denominators.
Now we multiply the fractions: (3/2) x (4/5).
- Multiply the numerators: 3 x 4 = 12
- Multiply the denominators: 2 x 5 = 10
This gives us the fraction 12/10.
Step 3: Simplify the fraction.
The fraction 12/10 can be simplified. Both the numerator and denominator are divisible by 2.
- Divide the numerator by 2: 12 ÷ 2 = 6
- Divide the denominator by 2: 10 ÷ 2 = 5
Therefore, the simplified fraction is 6/5.
Step 4: Convert the improper fraction back to a mixed number (optional).
Since 6/5 is an improper fraction (the numerator is larger than the denominator), we can convert it back to a mixed number.
- Divide the numerator (6) by the denominator (5): 6 ÷ 5 = 1 with a remainder of 1.
- The quotient (1) becomes the whole number part of the mixed number.
- The remainder (1) becomes the numerator of the fractional part.
- The denominator stays the same (5).
Therefore, 6/5 is equivalent to 1 1/5.
Conclusion
The product of 1 1/2 and 4/5 is 6/5 or 1 1/5.