Chapter 5: Problem 3
To convert a positive mixed number to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number part by the denominator and add the numerator. The result is the numerator of the improper fraction; the denominator remains unchanged.
Short Answer
Expert verified
Question: Convert the given positive mixed number to an improper fraction: 3 2/5
Answer: To convert the mixed number 3 2/5 to an improper fraction, follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the whole number, numerator, and denominator
In the given mixed number, the whole number (a) = 3, numerator (b) = 2, and denominator (c) = 5.
Step 2: Multiply the whole number by the denominator
Calculate a * c: 3 * 5 = 15
Step 3: Add the numerator to the result from Step 2
Calculate (a * c) + b: 15 + 2 = 17
Step 4: Write the improper fraction
The improper fraction is (17/5) using the new numerator and the unchanged denominator: 17 / 5.