4. Dividing a mixed number by an integer.

Deepen your knowledge with an interactive video lesson on this topic in our app. Quizzes and pauses will help you better absorb the material!

This video's topic is dividing a mixed number by a whole number. Previously, we divided fractions, but now we will divide a mixed number, i.e., a number that consists of a whole part and a fraction. The simplest way to divide a mixed number is to first divide the whole part, then the fraction, and then sum up both results. Let's examine a familiar example with a twist, but this time, in the evening by the campfire, we'll divide four and a half pizzas among four friends. So, four wholes and a half divided by four equals four divided by four, and the denominator multiplied by four gives one eighth. Up to this point, it's clear! However, in my opinion, there's a better way to divide a mixed number by a whole – by converting the mixed number into an improper fraction! Here's how we do it: multiply the denominator by five and add the numerator of four. Let's transform another number and practice! Four wholes and five eighths we convert into an improper fraction, watch the example, and once you've calculated, continue watching. I hope you got it right, but even if not, the main thing is to understand how it's done, and success will follow. We multiply the whole number four by the denominator eight and add five, and as a result, we get thirty-seven eighths, now dividing this number will be simpler. Using our new knowledge, we'll divide the mixed number using the method of converting the mixed number into an improper fraction. Three wholes and four sixths, divided by four, now convert it on your own! That's twenty-two sixths. To divide twenty-two sixths by four, we multiply the denominator by six and then by four, and the result is twenty-two twenty-fourths, dividing by the greatest common divisor, the result is eleven twelfths. So, three wholes and four sixths, divided by four, equal eleven twelfths. Remember, it's easier to learn something new if you've mastered the old, so if you didn't understand, watch again, ask your teacher, parents, or friends. The main thing is to know! Goodbye!

Mastering Division of Mixed Numbers by Integers - Easy Guide

Understanding Division of Mixed Numbers by Integers

Dividing mixed numbers by integers might seem daunting at first, but with the right techniques and a bit of practice, it becomes as simple as pie (or pizza, as our video lesson depicted!). While the video beautifully demonstrated the process using examples around dividing pizzas, let's delve deeper into this topic with fresh examples and a slightly different approach that complements our pizza-sharing adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide to Division

Imagine you have 7 and 3/4 pieces of chocolate, and you want to share them equally among 3 friends. How would you go about it?

First, remember the method of converting the mixed number (7 and 3/4) into an improper fraction. Multiply the whole number (7) by the denominator (4), and then add the numerator (3). So, you get (7*4)+3 = 31/4.

Now, divide this improper fraction (31/4) by 3. How? Simply multiply the denominator by 3. So, it becomes 31/12. Simplifying further might be needed depending on the numbers you're working with.

Why Convert to Improper Fractions?

Converting a mixed number into an improper fraction makes division more straightforward and reduces the chances of mistakes. It standardizes the process, simplifying both the division and the subsequent simplification steps.

Try It Yourself!

Now that you've seen another example, why not try one yourself? Take 5 and 1/2 and divide it by 2. Convert, divide, and simplify. It's a great way to reinforce what you've learned and become more comfortable with these types of problems.

Final Thoughts

Math can be a lot of fun, especially when you tackle it with a positive mindset and a willingness to practice. Dividing mixed numbers by integers doesn't have to be complicated, and with the methods we've discussed here, you'll be solving these problems like a pro in no time. Remember, practice makes perfect!