Chapter 3: Problem 28
Find the following quotients. $$8 \div\left(1 \frac{1}{4} \div 2\right)$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The quotient is \(\frac{64}{5}\).
Step by step solution
01
Convert Mixed Number to Improper Fraction
First, convert the mixed number \(1 \frac{1}{4}\) into an improper fraction. \(1 \frac{1}{4} = \frac{5}{4}\). This is done by multiplying the whole number (1) by the denominator (4) and then adding the numerator (1).
02
Perform the Inner Division
Divide the improper fraction \(\frac{5}{4}\) by 2. To divide by a whole number, convert 2 into a fraction (\(\frac{2}{1}\)), and then multiply by the reciprocal. So, \(\frac{5}{4} \div \frac{2}{1} = \frac{5}{4} \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{8}\).
03
Divide 8 by the Result
Now, divide 8 by \(\frac{5}{8}\). To do this, multiply 8 by the reciprocal of \(\frac{5}{8}\), which is \(\frac{8}{5}\). Thus, we get: \(8 \times \frac{8}{5} = \frac{64}{5}\).
04
Simplify the Fraction (if needed)
The expression \(\frac{64}{5}\) represents a fraction and can also be expressed as a mixed number if desired, which is \(12 \frac{4}{5}\). However, it is often acceptable to leave it in improper fraction form.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Mixed Number to Improper Fraction
A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. To work with it in equations, we often convert it into an improper fraction. An improper fraction has a numerator larger than its denominator, allowing for easier calculations like division or multiplication.
To convert a mixed number, we use this simple method:
To convert a mixed number, we use this simple method:
- Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fractional part.
- Add the numerator to this result.
- This sum becomes the numerator of the improper fraction, while the denominator remains unchanged.
Dividing Fractions
Dividing fractions is necessary to understand expressions involving fractions and division. When dividing by a fraction, you essentially multiply by its reciprocal. The reciprocal of a fraction simply switches its numerator and denominator.
Let's examine the process:
Let's examine the process:
- Identify the reciprocal of the divisor. For example, the reciprocal of \(\frac{2}{1}\) (whole number 2) is \(\frac{1}{2}\).
- Multiply the dividend by this reciprocal instead of performing direct division.
Fraction Multiplication
Multiplication of fractions requires a straightforward step-by-step approach. It involves multiplying the numerators together and the denominators together.
Here's how you do it:
Here's how you do it:
- Multiply the numerators to find the new numerator.
- Multiply the denominators to get the new denominator.
Simplifying Fractions
Simplifying fractions makes them easier to interpret and compare. A simplified fraction has a numerator and denominator with no common factors besides 1.
To simplify a fraction:
To simplify a fraction:
- Identify the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the numerator and denominator.
- Divide both the numerator and denominator by their GCD.