Fractions in Measurement: Understanding 5/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/8
In mathematics, fractions are used to represent part of a whole. When it comes to measurement, fractions play a crucial role in calculating lengths, widths, and heights. In this article, we will explore the concept of fractions in measurement, focusing on the calculation of 5/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/8.
What do these fractions represent?
Before we dive into the calculation, let's understand what each fraction represents:
- 5/8: This fraction represents five eighths of a unit. In measurement, it can be used to describe the length of an object, such as a piece of wood or a pipe.
- 1 1/2: This mixed number represents one and a half units. In measurement, it can be used to describe the width or height of an object, such as a board or a room.
- 1/8: This fraction represents one eighth of a unit. In measurement, it can be used to describe the thickness of an object, such as a sheet of metal or a piece of fabric.
The Calculation: 5/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/8
To calculate the product of these fractions, we need to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):
- Convert the mixed number 1 1/2 to an improper fraction: 1 1/2 = 3/2
- Multiply the fractions: 5/8 x 3/2 x 1/8
- Simplify the fractions: (5 x 3 x 1) / (8 x 2 x 8) = 15/128
The Result
The result of the calculation is 15/128. This fraction represents the product of the original fractions.
Real-World Applications
The calculation of 5/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/8 has real-world applications in various fields, such as:
- Carpentry: When building a cabinet, you may need to calculate the volume of a piece of wood with dimensions 5/8 inch x 1 1/2 inches x 1/8 inch.
- Engineering: When designing a mechanical component, you may need to calculate the surface area of a sheet metal with dimensions 5/8 inch x 1 1/2 inches x 1/8 inch.
In conclusion, understanding fractions in measurement is crucial in various fields. By calculating the product of 5/8 x 1 1/2 x 1/8, we can apply this knowledge to solve real-world problems.
