Adding Mixed Numbers: 1 1/4 + 1 1/2 in Fraction Form
In this article, we will explore how to add two mixed numbers, 1 1/4 and 1 1/2, and express the result in fraction form.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. In this case, we have two mixed numbers:
- 1 1/4: This mixed number has a whole number part (1) and a fraction part (1/4).
- 1 1/2: This mixed number has a whole number part (1) and a fraction part (1/2).
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To add these mixed numbers, we need to convert them to improper fractions. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
- 1 1/4 = 5/4 (multiply the whole number part by the denominator and add the numerator)
- 1 1/2 = 3/2 (multiply the whole number part by the denominator and add the numerator)
Adding the Improper Fractions
Now that we have converted the mixed numbers to improper fractions, we can add them:
5/4 + 3/2 = ?
To add these fractions, we need a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 2 is 4. So, we can convert 3/2 to have a denominator of 4:
3/2 = 6/4
Now we can add:
5/4 + 6/4 = 11/4
Converting the Result Back to a Mixed Number
Finally, we can convert the resulting improper fraction back to a mixed number:
11/4 = 2 3/4
Conclusion
The result of adding 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 is 2 3/4. By converting mixed numbers to improper fractions, adding them, and then converting back to a mixed number, we can easily perform arithmetic operations on mixed numbers.
