Understanding Mixed Numbers

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 106 views

Understanding Mixed Numbers

In mathematics, a mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a fraction. It is written in the form of a whole number followed by a fraction, such as $2 \frac{3}{4}$ or $1 \frac{1}{2}$ . Mixed numbers are used to represent quantities that are not whole, but can be expressed as a combination of a whole number and a fraction.

The Problem: Adding Mixed Numbers

Marta used $2 \frac{3}{4}$ cups of milk and $1 \frac{1}{2}$ cups of cheese in a recipe. To find the total amount of cheese and milk used, we need to add these two mixed numbers together.

Step 1: Convert Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions

To add mixed numbers, we need to convert them to improper fractions first. An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

$2 \frac{3}{4}$ can be converted to an improper fraction by multiplying the whole number by the denominator and adding the numerator: $2 \times 4 + 3 = 11$ . So, $2 \frac{3}{4} = \frac{11}{4}$ .
$1 \frac{1}{2}$ can be converted to an improper fraction by multiplying the whole number by the denominator and adding the numerator: $1 \times 2 + 1 = 3$ . So, $1 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{3}{2}$ .

Step 2: Find a Common Denominator

To add fractions, we need to find a common denominator. The common denominator is the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators of the two fractions.

The LCM of 4 and 2 is 4. So, we can rewrite $\frac{3}{2}$ as $\frac{6}{4}$ .

Step 3: Add the Fractions

Now that we have a common denominator, we can add the fractions.

$\frac{11}{4} + \frac{6}{4} = \frac{17}{4}$

Step 4: Convert the Result to a Mixed Number

To convert the improper fraction to a mixed number, we need to divide the numerator by the denominator.

$\frac{17}{4} = 4 \frac{1}{4}$

Conclusion

Marta used $4 \frac{1}{4}$ cups of cheese and milk in total. This is the correct answer.

Answer Key

A. 3 cups: Incorrect
B. $3 \frac{4}{6}$ cups: Incorrect
C. $4 \frac{1}{4}$ cups: Correct
D. $4 \frac{3}{4}$ cups: Incorrect

Tips and Tricks

When adding mixed numbers, convert them to improper fractions first.
Find a common denominator by finding the LCM of the denominators.
Add the fractions and then convert the result to a mixed number.

Real-World Applications

Adding mixed numbers is an essential skill in real-world applications, such as cooking, carpentry, and finance. For example, a recipe may require $2 \frac{3}{4}$ cups of flour and $1 \frac{1}{2}$ cups of sugar. To find the total amount of ingredients needed, we need to add these two mixed numbers together.

Practice Problems

Add $3 \frac{2}{3}$ and $2 \frac{1}{4}$ .
Add $4 \frac{3}{8}$ and $1 \frac{1}{2}$ .
Add $2 \frac{1}{6}$ and $3 \frac{4}{5}$ .

Conclusion

Adding mixed numbers is a fundamental concept in mathematics. By following the steps outlined in this article, we can add mixed numbers with ease. Remember to convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions, find a common denominator, add the fractions, and then convert the result to a mixed number. With practice, you will become proficient in adding mixed numbers and be able to apply this skill in real-world applications.