If you are absolutely clueless about multiplication of fractions with whole numbers, this write-up is a must read. Here, you will find an explanation of how it works.
Whole numbers form a set, which includes natural numbers (1, 2, 3, 4,...), along with zero. It is a superset of natural numbers. A fraction is created when you divide one whole number, by another. It could be also seen as a part of a whole.
An example of a fraction is 2/3, which could be seen as 2 divided by 3, or 2 parts chosen out of three parts of a whole. In the fraction - '2/3', 2 is called the numerator of the fraction and 3 is the denominator. Hope that you are already familiar with the process of multiplication of numbers.
How it's Done
One of the many forms of problems related to fractions, that you will be posed with, when solving your math assignments, is the multiplication of fractions with whole numbers. Here's how the operation is carried out.
❖ When multiplying, remember that the whole number must only multiply the numerator of the fraction and not the denominator.
❖ After you multiply the numerator of the fractions with the whole number, you must write the product as the numerator, with the denominator of the earlier fraction.
❖ If you are dealing with a mixed fraction, it is best to convert it into a simple fraction, before multiplying it with the whole number.
Here are a few examples, which will help you grasp the exact procedure, explained through the given rules. Example 1: (2 / 7) x (4) = (2 x 4) / 7 = 8 / 7
Example 2: (15 / 8) x (3) = (15 x 3) / 8 = 45 / 8
Example 3: (6 / 5) x (2) = (6 x 2) / 5 = 12 / 5
Example 4: (6 / 19) x (5) = (6 x 5) / 19 = 30 / 19
Example 5: (3 ½) x 4 = [{(3 x 2) + 1} / 2] x 4 = (7 / 2) x 4 = (7 x 4) / 2 = 28 / 2 = 14
The procedure is quite simple and all you have to do is follow the rules. As mentioned before, all you have to do is multiply the numerator of the fraction with the whole number and write the product as the numerator of the product fraction, while the denominator remains the same. Practice a few examples every day, and you will become a pro at this.