topic badge

2.03 Multiplying and dividing mixed numbers

Lesson

Previously, we worked on multiplying and dividing fractions. Now, we'll apply the same rules to multiply and divide mixed numbers.

Recall that a mixed number is a number consisting of an integer and a unit fraction. A mixed number can also be expressed as an improper fraction or a fraction where the numerator is larger than the denominator.

Exploration

Watch the video below, where we discuss how to multiply and divide mixed numbers.

  1. In what ways are the steps the same as multiplying and dividing other fractions?
  2. In what ways are the steps different?

Notice that we can use the same steps for multiplying and dividing fractions that we previously saw, with one added step. That is, we can convert mixed numbers to improper fractions first.

 

Practice questions

Question 1

Evaluate $2\frac{2}{5}\times1\frac{3}{5}$225×135, giving your answer as a mixed number in simplest form.

Question 2

Evaluate $3\frac{3}{7}\div1\frac{3}{5}$337÷​135, giving your answer as a mixed number in simplest form.

 

Outcomes

6.NS.A.1

Interpret and compute quotients of fractions to solve mathematical problems and problems in real-world context involving division of fractions by fractions using visual fraction models and equations to represent the problem. For example, create a story context for 2/3 ÷ 3/4 and use a visual fraction model to show the quotient; use the relationship between multiplication and division to explain that 2/3 ÷ 3/4 = 8/9 because 3/4 of 8/9 is 2/3. In general, a/b ÷ c/d = ad/bc.

What is Mathspace

About Mathspace