How do you multiply #5 1/2# by #3 3/4#?

1 Answer
Ben G.
Mar 26, 2017

#20 5/8#

Explanation:

First, make the mixed fractions improper or top-heavy fractions. This is done by multiplying the number that isn't on the fraction by the denominator (the number under the line) and adding it to the numerator (the number on top of the line):

#5 1/2 = ((5xx2)+1)/2 = 11/2#

#3 3/4 = ((3xx4)+3)/4 = 15/4#

Now you can multiply the fractions by multiplying numerator to numerator and denominator to denominator:

#11/2xx15/4 = (11xx15)/(2xx4) = 165/8#

Then, to convert back to a mixed fraction, divide the numerator by the denominator. Take that value out of the fraction and leave the remainder at the top:

#165/8 = 20# remainder #5#
#:. 165/8 = 20 5/8#

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