Multiplying Fractions: 1 3/4 Cups x 3
This article will walk you through how to multiply a mixed number (1 3/4) by a whole number (3). This is a common calculation that comes up when scaling recipes or figuring out the total amount of ingredients needed.
Converting to an Improper Fraction
Before multiplying, it's easier to work with improper fractions. Here's how to convert 1 3/4 to an improper fraction:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator: 1 x 4 = 4
- Add the numerator: 4 + 3 = 7
- Keep the same denominator: 7/4
Now we have the problem: (7/4) x 3
Multiplying Fractions
- Multiply the numerators: 7 x 3 = 21
- Multiply the denominators: 4 x 1 = 4
This gives us the answer: 21/4
Converting Back to a Mixed Number
While 21/4 is a correct answer, it's often more practical to express it as a mixed number:
- Divide the numerator by the denominator: 21 ÷ 4 = 5 with a remainder of 1
- The quotient becomes the whole number: 5
- The remainder becomes the numerator: 1
- Keep the same denominator: 1/4
Therefore, 1 3/4 cups x 3 equals 5 1/4 cups.