What's Half Of 2 1/2? Discover The Easy Calculation!
Table of Contents :
To find half of 2 1/2, you first need to understand what 2 1/2 means in mathematical terms. This mixed number can be converted into an improper fraction to simplify the calculation. Let’s break down the steps to calculate half of 2 1/2 with clarity and ease.
Understanding Mixed Numbers
A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. In our case, 2 1/2 consists of the whole number 2 and the fraction 1/2. To perform operations with mixed numbers, we often convert them into improper fractions.
Converting Mixed Number to Improper Fraction
To convert the mixed number 2 1/2 into an improper fraction, follow these steps:
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Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (2): [ 2 \times 2 = 4 ]
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Add the result to the numerator (1): [ 4 + 1 = 5 ]
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Write this result over the original denominator (2): [ \frac{5}{2} ]
Now, we have converted 2 1/2 into the improper fraction ( \frac{5}{2} ).
Calculating Half of the Improper Fraction
Now, to find half of ( \frac{5}{2} ), you multiply the fraction by ( \frac{1}{2} ):
[ \frac{5}{2} \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5 \times 1}{2 \times 2} = \frac{5}{4} ]
Converting Back to Mixed Number
To express ( \frac{5}{4} ) as a mixed number:
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Divide the numerator by the denominator: [ 5 \div 4 = 1 \quad \text{(whole number)} ]
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Find the remainder: [ 5 - 4 = 1 \quad \text{(remainder)} ]
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Write the result as a mixed number: [ 1 \frac{1}{4} ]
Thus, half of 2 1/2 is ( 1 \frac{1}{4} ).
Summary of the Calculation
Here’s a quick summary of how to find half of 2 1/2:
| Step | Operation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Convert mixed number | ( 2 \times 2 + 1 ) | ( \frac{5}{2} ) |
| Calculate half | ( \frac{5}{2} \times \frac{1}{2} ) | ( \frac{5}{4} ) |
| Convert back to mixed number | ( 5 \div 4 ) | ( 1 \frac{1}{4} ) |
Important Note
Always remember when working with fractions and mixed numbers to maintain consistent operations for accurate results. Keeping track of numerators and denominators will simplify your calculations greatly.
By following these steps, you can easily determine that half of 2 1/2 is indeed ( 1 \frac{1}{4} ). 😊 Happy calculating!