To find half of a mixed number like (5 \frac{5}{8}), you can follow a series of straightforward steps. Let's break it down to make it simple and easy to understand. This guide will ensure you have a solid grasp of how to perform this calculation.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. In our case, (5 \frac{5}{8}) comprises the whole number (5) and the fraction (\frac{5}{8}).
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Half of (5 \frac{5}{8})
Step 1: Convert the Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction
To work with mixed numbers, the first step is to convert them into improper fractions. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
Formula to Convert:
[ \text{Improper Fraction} = \left(\text{Whole Number} \times \text{Denominator}\right) + \text{Numerator} ]
For (5 \frac{5}{8}):
- Whole Number = 5
- Numerator = 5
- Denominator = 8
Calculating the improper fraction:
[ \text{Improper Fraction} = (5 \times 8) + 5 = 40 + 5 = 45 ]
So, (5 \frac{5}{8}) as an improper fraction is (\frac{45}{8}).
Step 2: Divide the Improper Fraction by 2
To find half of (\frac{45}{8}), you divide by 2. Dividing a fraction by a whole number involves multiplying the denominator by that whole number.
[ \frac{45}{8} \div 2 = \frac{45}{8} \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{45 \times 1}{8 \times 2} = \frac{45}{16} ]
Step 3: Convert the Improper Fraction Back to a Mixed Number
Now, we will convert (\frac{45}{16}) back to a mixed number.
-
Divide the numerator by the denominator:
(45 \div 16 = 2) (whole number)
-
Calculate the remainder:
(45 - (16 \times 2) = 45 - 32 = 13)
So, (\frac{45}{16}) can be expressed as:
[ 2 \frac{13}{16} ]
Summary of Steps
Here’s a quick summary of the steps we've taken:
- Convert (5 \frac{5}{8}) to an improper fraction: (\frac{45}{8}).
- Divide by 2: (\frac{45}{8} \div 2 = \frac{45}{16}).
- Convert back to a mixed number: (2 \frac{13}{16}).
Final Answer
Thus, half of (5 \frac{5}{8}) is (2 \frac{13}{16}). 🎉
By following these easy steps, you can find half of any mixed number with confidence!