Introduction:

Multiplying fractions with whole numbers may seem intimidating for many, especially when you’re first learning about fractions. However, with a few key strategies and regular practice, mastering this essential skill becomes much easier. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of multiplying fractions with whole numbers and provide practice problems for you to apply these techniques.

Step 1: Convert the Whole Number into a Fraction

The first step in multiplying fractions with whole numbers is to convert the whole number into a fraction. You can do this by placing it over 1. For example, if you want to multiply 3 by 2/5, write it as 3/1.

Step 2: Multiply the Numerators

Next, multiply the numerators (the top numbers) of the fractions together. In our example, we have:

3 * 2 = 6.

Step 3: Multiply the Denominators

Now multiply the denominators (the bottom numbers) of the fraction together. In our example:

1 * 5 = 5.

Step 4: Express the Product as a Fraction

Put your product from Step 2 over your product from Step 3 to get your answer in fractional form. In our example:

6/5.

So, the product of multiplying 3 by 2/5 is equal to an improper fraction, which can be further simplified or converted into a mixed number if necessary.

Practice Problems:

Now that we’ve reviewed how to multiply fractions with whole numbers let’s work through some practice problems together.

Problem #1:

Multiply 7 by 4/9

Solution:

7 * (4/9) = (7/1) * (4/9) = (7 * 4)/(1 * 9) = 28/9

Problem #2:

Multiply 5 by 3/8

Solution:

5 * (3/8) = (5/1) * (3/8) = (5 * 3)/(1 * 8) = 15/8

Problem #3:

Multiply 11 by 2/7

Solution:

11 * (2/7) = (11/1) * (2/7) = (11 * 2)/(1 * 7) = 22/7

Problem #4:

Multiply 6 by 5/8

Solution:

6 * (5/8) = (6/1) * (5/8) = (6 * 5)/(1 * 8) = 30/8, which simplifies to 15/4.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, multiplying fractions with whole numbers is a straightforward process that becomes much simpler with practice. Follow the steps outlined above and make use of the practice problems provided to improve your understanding of this essential mathematical skill. With consistent effort, you’ll soon master the art of multiplying fractions with whole numbers.