How do you multiply and divide mixed numbers?

Answer 1

Mixed Numbers/Fractions.

Here is an example of multiplication.

2 2/5 X 3 4/7

First convert to improper(top heavy) fractions.

12/5 X 25/7

Cancel down(reduce) if possible. In this case by '5'.

Hence

12/1 X 5/7

Multiply the numerators(top) numbers together. Then multiply the denominators(bottom) numbers together.

Hence

60/7

Convert back to a mixed number/fraction, by dividing '60' by '7.

60/7 = 8 4/7 ( The answer).

Here is an example of Division

4 1/ 7 divide 3 4/5

Again convert to improper fractions.

29/7 divide 19/5

This next bit is very important. 'CHANGE THE SIGN TO MULTIPLY AND INVERT(TURN OVER) THE RIGHT HAND FRACTION.' Then proceed as multiplication.

Hence

29/7 X 5/19

Cancel down if appropriate. We cannot cancel down in this case , as there are no common factors 'top and bottom'.

Multiply the numerators(top) numbers together. Then multiply the denominators(bottom) numbers together.

Hence

145/133

Reduce to a mixed number/fraction

1 12/133 The Answer!!!!!

NB I have deliberately selected 'big' numbers to show how to manipulate large numbers in fractions.

Answer 2

First convert them into improper fractions. And then to multiply multiply both the numerators and the denominators. To divide just take the reciprocal ofthe denomiator anjd then multiply them.