Question

A fraction or the fractional part of a mixed number in an answer should always be written in lowest terms.

Short answer

Answer: 2 1/2

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Fractional Part of the Mixed Number

First, we need to identify the fractional part in the given mixed number. The fractional part will be the numerical component written as a fraction after the whole number in the mixed number.

Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) of the Numerator and Denominator

Now that we have identified the fractional part, we need to find the greatest common divisor of the numerator and denominator. The GCD is the largest number that divides both the numerator and denominator without leaving a remainder. You can use Euclidean Algorithm or prime factorization to find the GCD.

Divide the Numerator and Denominator by the GCD

Once you find the GCD, divide both the numerator and the denominator of the fractional part by the GCD. This will simplify the fraction to its lowest term.

Rewrite the Mixed Number with the Simplified Fraction

Finally, rewrite the mixed number using the simplified fractional part obtained in step 3. Now, let's take an example to illustrate the steps: Example: Simplify the mixed number 2 4/8 to its lowest terms. Step 1: Identify the Fractional Part of the Mixed Number Fractional part: 4/8 Step 2: Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) of the Numerator and Denominator GCD(4, 8) = 4 Step 3: Divide the Numerator and Denominator by the GCD 4 ÷ 4 = 1 8 ÷ 4 = 2 Simplified fractional part: 1/2 Step 4: Rewrite the Mixed Number with the Simplified Fraction Result: 2 1/2