How to Multiply Mixed Numbers
Do you need two and a half dozen cookies, but a recipe only makes one dozen? Don’t let the daunting task of multiplying mixed numbers get in the way.
Instructions
- Step 1: Write the numbers down Write your mixed numbers down on a piece of paper to convert them to improper fractions.
- Step 2: Convert to improper fraction Multiply the denominator – the bottom number of the fraction – by the whole number, and then add the top number of the fraction – the numerator. Write the product on top of the denominator.
- TIP: For example, the mixed numbers in two and a half times three and two-fifths convert to the improper fractions five halves and seventeen-fifths.
- Step 3: Write the improper fractions Write the improper fractions side-by-side on your paper.
- Step 4: Multiply the numerators Multiply the numerators and write the product as the numerator of your solution.
- TIP: The product of five halves times seventeen-fifths will have a numerator of 85.
- Step 5: Multiply the denominators Multiply the denominators and write the product as the denominator of your solution.
- TIP: The product of five halves × seventeen-fifths will have a denominator of 10.
- Step 6: Simplify Simplify the resulting fraction and write the solution as a mixed number.
- FACT: The Rhind Mathematical Papyrus, from around 1650 B.C.E., contains 84 mathematical problems involving administrative and building works.
You Will Need
- Paper
- A pencil