To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator; the quotient becomes the whole number, the remainder becomes the new numerator, and the denominator stays the same.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:
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Divide the numerator by the denominator: This step involves performing long division. The numerator (the top number in the fraction) is divided by the denominator (the bottom number).
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Determine the Whole Number: The whole number part of the mixed number is the quotient (the result of the division, ignoring any remainder).
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Determine the New Numerator: The remainder from the division becomes the numerator of the fractional part of the mixed number.
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Keep the Original Denominator: The denominator of the fractional part of the mixed number is the same as the denominator of the original improper fraction.
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Write the Mixed Number: Combine the whole number and the new fraction (new numerator over the original denominator) to form the mixed number.
Example:
Let's convert the improper fraction 11/4 to a mixed number.
- Divide: 11 รท 4 = 2 with a remainder of 3.
- Whole Number: The whole number is 2.
- New Numerator: The remainder is 3, so the new numerator is 3.
- Original Denominator: The original denominator was 4, so it remains 4.
- Mixed Number: Therefore, 11/4 is equal to the mixed number 2 3/4.
In summary, the process involves division, identifying the quotient and remainder, and then constructing the mixed number using these values along with the original denominator.
