Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions: 5 1/8 to 1/4
In this article, we will explore how to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, specifically focusing on the example of 5 1/8 and 1/4.
What is a Mixed Number?
A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. It consists of three parts: the whole number, the numerator, and the denominator. For example, 5 1/8 is a mixed number where 5 is the whole number, 1 is the numerator, and 8 is the denominator.
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 by the denominator: In this case, we multiply 5 (the whole number) by 8 (the denominator), which gives us 40.
- Add the numerator to the product: Next, we add 1 (the numerator) to 40, which results in 41.
- Write the result as an improper fraction: Finally, we write the result as an improper fraction, which is 41/8.
Example: Converting 5 1/8 to an Improper Fraction
Using the steps above, we can convert 5 1/8 to an improper fraction as follows:
5 × 8 = 40 40 + 1 = 41 41/8
Therefore, the mixed number 5 1/8 is equivalent to the improper fraction 41/8.
What About 1/4?
Now, let's examine the fraction 1/4. This is a simple fraction with a numerator of 1 and a denominator of 4. There is no need to convert it to an improper fraction since it is already in its simplest form.
Comparison: 41/8 and 1/4
Now that we have converted 5 1/8 to an improper fraction (41/8), we can compare it to 1/4. We can see that these two fractions are not equal, as they have different numerators and denominators.
In conclusion, we have successfully converted the mixed number 5 1/8 to an improper fraction, 41/8, and compared it to the fraction 1/4.
