3 1/2 x 5: Understanding Fraction Multiplication
When it comes to multiplication, fractions can sometimes be a bit tricky. But don't worry, we're here to help you understand how to multiply 3 1/2 by 5.
What is 3 1/2?
Before we dive into the multiplication, let's quickly review what 3 1/2 means. 3 1/2 is a mixed number, which is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. In this case, the whole number is 3 and the fraction is 1/2.
Multiplying 3 1/2 by 5
To multiply 3 1/2 by 5, we need to follow a few steps:
Step 1: Convert the Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction
First, we need to convert the mixed number 3 1/2 to an improper fraction. To do this, we multiply the whole number (3) by the denominator (2) and then add the numerator (1).
(3 x 2) + 1 = 7
So, our improper fraction is 7/2.
Step 2: Multiply the Improper Fraction by 5
Now, we can multiply the improper fraction 7/2 by 5.
(7/2) x 5 = (7 x 5) / 2
(35) / 2 = 17 1/2
And there you have it! 3 1/2 x 5 is equal to 17 1/2.
Conclusion
Multiplying fractions can be a bit challenging, but by breaking it down into smaller steps, it becomes much more manageable. Remember to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions and then multiply accordingly. With practice, you'll become a pro at multiplying fractions in no time!
