How to Multiply a Whole Number by a Fraction
Multiplying a whole number by a fraction is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Understand the Problem
- You have a whole number (e.g., 5).
- You have a fraction (e.g., 3/4).
- You want to multiply them together (5 × 3/4).
Step 2: Convert the Whole Number to a Fraction
- Any whole number can be written as a fraction with a denominator of 1.
- For example, 5 becomes 5/1.
Step 3: Multiply the Numerators
- Multiply the top numbers (numerators) of the two fractions.
- For example: 5/1 × 3/4 → multiply 5 × 3 = 15.
Step 4: Multiply the Denominators
- Multiply the bottom numbers (denominators) of the two fractions.
- For example: 1 × 4 = 4.
Step 5: Write the Result as a Fraction
- The product is the numerator over the denominator.
- For example: 15/4.
Step 6: Simplify the Fraction (if possible)
- Check if the fraction can be simplified or converted to a mixed number.
- 15/4 can be written as 3 3/4 (since 15 ÷ 4 = 3 remainder 3).
Example:
Multiply 7 by 2/5.
- Convert 7 to a fraction: 7/1.
- Multiply numerators: 7 × 2 = 14.
- Multiply denominators: 1 × 5 = 5.
- Result: 14/5.
- Convert to mixed number: 14 ÷ 5 = 2 remainder 4 → 2 4/5.
If you want, I can provide more examples or explain how to multiply fractions in general!
