Multiplying Mixed Numbers: Finding 1 1/4 times 1 1/4
This article will guide you through multiplying the mixed number 1 1/4 by itself, resulting in a fraction.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
Before diving into the multiplication, let's remember what mixed numbers are. A mixed number combines a whole number and a fraction. For example, 1 1/4 represents one whole and one-quarter.
Converting to Improper Fractions
To multiply mixed numbers, we first need to convert them into improper fractions. Here's how:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator: 1 * 4 = 4
- Add the numerator: 4 + 1 = 5
- Keep the same denominator: 5/4
Therefore, 1 1/4 is equivalent to 5/4.
Multiplying the Fractions
Now, we can multiply the two improper fractions:
(5/4) * (5/4) = (5 * 5) / (4 * 4) = 25/16
Converting Back to a Mixed Number
The result, 25/16, is an improper fraction. Let's convert it back to a mixed number:
- Divide the numerator by the denominator: 25 ÷ 16 = 1 with a remainder of 9
- The quotient becomes the whole number: 1
- The remainder becomes the numerator: 9
- Keep the same denominator: 16
Therefore, 25/16 is equivalent to 1 9/16.
Conclusion
Multiplying 1 1/4 by itself results in 1 9/16. Remember to convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions before multiplying and then convert the result back to a mixed number if necessary.