To multiply a fraction by a whole number, you first need to convert the whole number into a fraction. Here's a breakdown:
- Convert the Whole Number to a Fraction: To do this, simply write the whole number over 1. For example, if you're multiplying by 4, you'd write it as 4/1.
- Multiply the Numerators: Multiply the numerator (the top number) of the fraction by the numerator of the whole number (which is the original whole number).
- Multiply the Denominators: Multiply the denominator (the bottom number) of the fraction by the denominator of the whole number (which is always 1).
- Simplify (if possible): Reduce the resulting fraction to its simplest form.
Here's an example based on the provided reference:
Example: Multiply 3/4 by 4.
- Convert: Change the whole number 4 to a fraction: 4/1.
- Multiply Numerators: 3 x 4 = 12
- Multiply Denominators: 4 x 1 = 4
- Result: This gives you 12/4.
- Simplify: 12/4 simplifies to 3.
Therefore, 3/4 x 4 = 3.
| Step | Example (3/4 x 4) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Convert Whole Number | 4 becomes 4/1 | Write the whole number as a fraction with 1 as the denominator. |
| 2. Multiply Numerators | 3 x 4 = 12 | Multiply the top numbers (numerators) together. |
| 3. Multiply Denominators | 4 x 1 = 4 | Multiply the bottom numbers (denominators) together. |
| 4. Resulting Fraction | 12/4 | The result of the multiplication. |
| 5. Simplify (if necessary) | 12/4 = 3 | Divide the numerator by the denominator to simplify the fraction to a whole number if possible. |
