Multiplying Mixed Numbers: 1 1/4 x 1 1/2
This article will guide you through the process of multiplying the mixed numbers 1 1/4 and 1 1/2.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Mixed numbers combine a whole number with a fraction. To multiply mixed numbers, we need to convert them into improper fractions.
1. Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
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1 1/4: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (4): 1 * 4 = 4. Add the numerator of the fraction (1): 4 + 1 = 5. Keep the same denominator (4). Therefore, 1 1/4 is equivalent to 5/4.
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1 1/2: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator of the fraction (2): 1 * 2 = 2. Add the numerator of the fraction (1): 2 + 1 = 3. Keep the same denominator (2). Therefore, 1 1/2 is equivalent to 3/2.
Multiplying the Improper Fractions
Now that we have improper fractions, we can multiply them:
- (5/4) * (3/2)
To multiply fractions, we multiply the numerators and the denominators:
- (5 * 3) / (4 * 2) = 15/8
Simplifying the Result
The result, 15/8, is an improper fraction. Let's convert it back to a mixed number:
- Divide the numerator (15) by the denominator (8): 15 ÷ 8 = 1 with a remainder of 7.
- The whole number of the mixed number is the quotient (1).
- The numerator of the fractional part is the remainder (7).
- The denominator remains the same (8).
Therefore, 15/8 is equivalent to 1 7/8.
Conclusion
The product of 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 is 1 7/8. Remember, multiplying mixed numbers involves converting them to improper fractions, multiplying the fractions, and then simplifying the result.