(Also called "Mixed Numbers")
A Mixed Fraction is a whole number and a proper fraction combined.
Such as 134
Examples
See how each example is made up of a whole number and a proper fraction together? That is why it is called a "mixed" fraction (or mixed number).
Names
We can give names to every part of a mixed fraction:
Three Types of Fractions
There are three types of fraction:
Mixed Fractions or Improper Fractions
We can use either an improper fraction or a mixed fraction to show the same amount.
For example 134 =
74, as shown here:
Converting Improper Fractions to Mixed Fractions
To convert an improper fraction to a mixed fraction, follow these steps:
| |
Example: Convert 114 to a mixed fraction.
Divide:
11 ÷ 4 = 2 with a remainder of 3
Write down the 2 and then write down the remainder (3) above the denominator (4).
Answer:
2 34
That example can be written like this:
Example: Convert 103 to a mixed fraction.
Answer:
3 13
Converting Mixed Fractions to Improper Fractions
To convert a mixed fraction to an improper fraction, follow these steps:
| |
Example: Convert 325 to an improper fraction.
Multiply the whole number part by the denominator:
3 × 5 = 15
Add that to the numerator:
15 + 2 = 17
Then write that result above the denominator:
175
We can do the numerator in one go:
Example: Convert 219 to an improper fraction.
Are Improper Fractions Bad ?
NO, they aren't bad!
For mathematics they are actually better than mixed fractions. Because mixed fractions can be confusing when we write them in a formula: should the two parts be added or multiplied?
What is: | 1 + 214 | ? | |||
Is it: | 1 + 2 + 14 | = 314 ? | |||
Or is it: | 1 + 2 × 14 | = 112 ? | |||
What is: | 1 + 94 | ? | |||
It is: | 44 + 94 = 134 |
But, for everyday use, people understand mixed fractions better.
Example: It is easier to say "I ate 214 sausages", than "I ate 94 sausages"
We Recommend:
- For Mathematics: Improper Fractions
- For Everyday Use: Mixed Fractions