Converting Mixed Numbers to Fractions: 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3 1/4
When working with mixed numbers, it's essential to understand how to convert them to fractions. In this article, we'll explore the process of converting 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3 1/4 to a fraction.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. In the case of 2 1/2, the whole number is 2, and the fraction is 1/2. Similarly, 3 1/4 can be broken down into a whole number (3) and a fraction (1/4).
Converting Mixed Numbers to Fractions
To convert a mixed number to a fraction, we need to follow these steps:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator: In the case of 2 1/2, we multiply 2 (the whole number) by 2 (the denominator), which gives us 4.
- Add the numerator: Add the numerator (1) to the product (4), which gives us 5.
- Write the result as a fraction: Write the result as a fraction with the numerator (5) and the denominator (2), which gives us 5/2.
Using the same process, we can convert 3 1/4 to a fraction:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator: In the case of 3 1/4, we multiply 3 (the whole number) by 4 (the denominator), which gives us 12.
- Add the numerator: Add the numerator (1) to the product (12), which gives us 13.
- Write the result as a fraction: Write the result as a fraction with the numerator (13) and the denominator (4), which gives us 13/4.
Multiplying Fractions
Now that we have converted both mixed numbers to fractions, we can multiply them together:
(5/2) × (5/2) × (13/4)
To multiply fractions, we need to follow these steps:
- Multiply the numerators: Multiply the numerators (5, 5, and 13) to get 325.
- Multiply the denominators: Multiply the denominators (2, 2, and 4) to get 16.
- Write the result as a fraction: Write the result as a fraction with the numerator (325) and the denominator (16), which gives us 325/16.
Therefore, 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3 1/4 as a fraction is equal to 325/16.
By following these steps, you can convert mixed numbers to fractions and perform calculations with ease. Remember to multiply the numerators and denominators separately, and simplify your answer to get the final result.
