Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions: 4 1/2 - 5/6 as a Fraction
In this article, we will explore how to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, specifically focusing on the example of 4 1/2 - 5/6.
What is a Mixed Number?
A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. It is written in the form:
a b/c
Where 'a' is the whole number part, and 'b/c' is the fractional part.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, we need to follow these steps:
- Multiply the whole number part by the denominator: Take the whole number part (a) and multiply it by the denominator (c).
- Add the numerator: Add the numerator (b) to the product obtained in step 1.
- Write the result as an improper fraction: Write the result as an improper fraction, with the numerator as the sum obtained in step 2, and the denominator remaining the same.
Converting 4 1/2 to an Improper Fraction
Let's convert 4 1/2 to an improper fraction using the steps above:
- Multiply the whole number part (4) by the denominator (2): 4 × 2 = 8
- Add the numerator (1): 8 + 1 = 9
- Write the result as an improper fraction: 9/2
So, 4 1/2 is equal to 9/2 as an improper fraction.
Converting 5/6 to a Mixed Number
Since 5/6 is already a fraction, we don't need to convert it to a mixed number. However, if we want to convert it to a mixed number, we can do so by dividing the numerator (5) by the denominator (6):
5 ÷ 6 = 0 with a remainder of 5
So, 5/6 is equal to 0 5/6 as a mixed number.
Subtracting 5/6 from 9/2
Now, let's subtract 5/6 from 9/2:
9/2 - 5/6 = ?
To subtract these fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The least common multiple (LCM) of 2 and 6 is 6. So, we can convert 9/2 to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 6:
9/2 = 27/6
Now, we can subtract:
27/6 - 5/6 = 22/6
Simplifying the fraction, we get:
22/6 = 11/3
So, 4 1/2 - 5/6 is equal to 11/3 as an improper fraction.
In conclusion, we have successfully converted the mixed number 4 1/2 to an improper fraction, and subtracted 5/6 from it to obtain the result 11/3.
