18 8 As A Mixed Number

18/8 as a Mixed Number: A Step-by-Step Guide

This article will guide you through converting the improper fraction 18/8 into a mixed number. Understanding this conversion is crucial for basic arithmetic and further mathematical concepts. We'll break down the process clearly, explaining each step so you can confidently handle similar conversions.

What is a Mixed Number?

A mixed number combines a whole number and a proper fraction. A proper fraction has a numerator (top number) smaller than its denominator (bottom number). For example, 2 ¾ is a mixed number; 2 is the whole number, and ¾ is the proper fraction.

Converting 18/8 to a Mixed Number

To convert 18/8 into a mixed number, we need to determine how many times the denominator (8) goes into the numerator (18). We do this through division.

1. Divide the numerator by the denominator: 18 ÷ 8 = 2 with a remainder of 2.

2. The quotient becomes the whole number: The quotient (2) is the whole number part of our mixed number.

3. The remainder becomes the numerator of the proper fraction: The remainder (2) becomes the numerator of the fraction.

4. The denominator remains the same: The denominator (8) stays the same in the fraction.

Therefore, 18/8 as a mixed number is 2 2/8.

Simplifying the Fraction

While 2 2/8 is a correct mixed number, we can simplify the fraction. Both the numerator (2) and the denominator (8) are divisible by 2.

1. Divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD): The GCD of 2 and 8 is 2.

2. Simplified fraction: 2 ÷ 2 = 1 and 8 ÷ 2 = 4.

So, the simplified mixed number is 2 ¼.

Therefore, the final answer is 2 ¼.

Practice Problems

Try converting these improper fractions to mixed numbers:

• 22/5
• 15/4
• 27/9

Understanding the steps involved in converting improper fractions to mixed numbers is essential for mastering fractions and progressing to more complex mathematical operations. Remember to always simplify the resulting fraction to its lowest terms.