A Mixed Number consists of an integer part and a fraction part. They are written with the integer part first, then the fraction part.
A Mixed number can be re-written as a top-heavy fraction, or improper fraction.
When calculating with fractions, turn a mixed number into an improper fraction, carry out the calculation, and then turn the answer back into a mixed number.
To turn a mixed number into an improper fraction, multiply the integer part by the denominator and add this value to the numerator. The denominator stays the same:
`3frac(2)(5)=frac((3times5) + 2)(5) = frac(17)(5)`
To turn an improper fraction into a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The answer is the integer part; the remainder is the new numerator and the denominator remains the same.
Simplify `frac(26)(8)`
26 ÷ 8 = 3 rem 2
The 3 is the integer part.
The 2 is the numerator.
The 8 is the denominator.
Then simplify the fraction part.
`frac(26)(8) = 3frac(2)(8) = 3frac(1)(4)`
Answer: `3frac(1)(4)`
Calculate `1frac(3)(8) xx 5`.
`1frac(3)(8) xx frac(5)(1)`
`= frac([1 xx 8] + 3)(8) xx frac(5)(1)`
`= frac(11)(8) xx frac(5)(1)`
`= frac(55)(8)`
`= 55÷8 = 6rem 7`
`= 6frac(7)(8)`
Answer: `6frac(7)(8)`