Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction. For example, 2 1/3 is a mixed number.

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator. For example, 5/4 is an improper fraction.

Front

How do you convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?

Back

To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place that result over the original denominator. For example, 2 1/3 = (2*3 + 1)/3 = 7/3.

Front

How do you convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?

Back

To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number, and the remainder is the new numerator over the original denominator. For example, 7/3 = 2 1/3.

Front

What is the first step in adding mixed numbers?

Back

The first step in adding mixed numbers is to convert them to improper fractions.

Front

What is the first step in subtracting mixed numbers?

Back

The first step in subtracting mixed numbers is to convert them to improper fractions.

Front

What is a proper fraction?

Back

A proper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is less than the denominator. For example, 3/4 is a proper fraction.

Front

Can you give an example of adding mixed numbers?

Back

Sure! To add 1 1/2 and 2 2/3, first convert them to improper fractions: 1 1/2 = 3/2 and 2 2/3 = 8/3. Then add: 3/2 + 8/3 = 9/6 + 16/6 = 25/6, which is 4 1/6 as a mixed number.

Front

Can you give an example of subtracting mixed numbers?

Back

Sure! To subtract 3 1/4 from 5 2/5, first convert them to improper fractions: 3 1/4 = 13/4 and 5 2/5 = 27/5. Then find a common denominator and subtract: 27/5 - 13/4 = 108/20 - 65/20 = 43/20, which is 2 3/20 as a mixed number.

Front

What is the relationship between mixed numbers and improper fractions?

Back

Mixed numbers and improper fractions represent the same value. A mixed number can be converted to an improper fraction and vice versa.