Mathematics can sometimes seem like a boring subject, especially when faced with converting mixed numbers into improper fractions.
However, with a clear understanding of the process and a few simple steps, you can quickly and easily convert mixed numbers to improper fractions. You can use a tool called the mixed numbers to improper fractions calculator that is available on fraction-calculator.net to help you.
In this article, we will break down the process into manageable steps which ensure that even beginners can understand the concept very easily.
What are Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions?
Before we start the article, let’s clarify what mixed numbers and improper fractions are. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a proper fraction. For example, 3 1/2 is a mixed number, where 3 is the whole number, and 1/2 is the fraction part.
On the other hand, an improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator (the number above the fraction line) is equal to or greater than the denominator (the number below the fraction line). For instance, 7/3 is an improper fraction because 7 is greater than 3.
Why convert mixed numbers to improper fractions?
Sometimes, working with mixed numbers can be difficult, especially when adding or subtracting them. Converting mixed numbers to improper fractions can be helpful for several reasons.
● Easier Calculations: Improper fractions can often make it much easier to add, subtract, and multiply fractions. For example, when you add 7/2 and 9/4, you get 16/4, which simplifies to 4. This makes the calculation easier and gives you the answer 4, or 1 ½ when converted back to a mixed number.
● Standardization: It means making things the same way across the board. So, when you’re dealing with lots of fractions, it can be simpler if they’re all in the same style.
Step-by-step conversion process
Converting a mixed number to an improper fraction involves a straightforward process. Let’s follow the steps below.
Step 1: Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fractional part.
In the mixed number 3 1/2, we have 3 as the whole number and 2 as the denominator of the fraction part. To convert this to an improper fraction, we multiply 3 by 2:
3 × 2 = 6
Step 2: Add the result to the numerator of the fraction part.
Following the above example, the top number of the fraction part is 1. Now, add this to the result from step 1:
6 + 1 = 7
Step 3: Write the sum obtained in step 2 as the numerator of the improper fraction.
The sum we obtained in step 2, which is 7, becomes the numerator of the improper fraction.
Step 4: Keep the same denominator as the original fraction.
Since the original fraction’s denominator was 2, we retain this denominator for the improper fraction.
Putting it all together
Following the steps outlined above, we can convert the mixed number 3 1/2 to an improper fraction:
1. Multiply the whole number (3) by the denominator of the fraction part (2): 3 × 2 = 6
2. Add the result (6) to the numerator of the fraction part (1): 6 + 1 = 7
3. Write the sum (7) as the numerator of the improper fraction.
4. Keep the denominator (2) the same.
So, 3 1/2 as an improper fraction is 7/2.
Example of conversion
Let’s try another example to improve your understanding.
Suppose we have a mixed number 4 3/5.
1. Multiply the whole number (4) by the denominator of the fraction part (5): 4 × 5 = 20
2. Add the result (20) to the numerator of the fraction part (3): 20 + 3 = 23
3. Write the sum (23) as the numerator of the improper fraction.
4. Keep the denominator (5) the same.
Therefore, 4 3/5 as an improper fraction is 23/5.
Final words
Converting mixed numbers to improper fractions is not difficult anymore. By following a few simple steps and the right tool, like a mixed numbers to improper fractions calculator, you can easily convert with confidence.
Remember to multiply the whole number by the denominator and add it to the numerator to obtain your improper fraction. So, practice this process with different examples to improve your understanding. With practice, converting mixed numbers to improper fractions becomes very easy.
