How do you solve #20 1/2 div 3/4#?

2 Answers
Oct 20, 2016

#27 1/3#

Explanation:

Convert the improper fraction to a improper fraction

#20 1/2 = (20*2+1)/2=41/2#

So the problem becomes

#41/2 div 3/4#

Now you have to multiply by the reciprocal

#41/2 * 4/3#

Cross cancel

#41/cancel2 * (2cancel4)/3#

Multiply numerators and then denominators

#41/1 * 2/3 = 82/3#

Convert to an improper fraction

#82/3=27 1/3#

For another explanation please see the following tutorial.

Oct 20, 2016

#27.33 or 82/3#

Explanation:

When dividing fraction, you are actually multiplying by the reciprocal.

But first, it would be easier to work with improper fractions than with a mixed number.

So, to change #20 1/2# into an improper fraction:

Multiply the denominator by the whole number

#2xx20=40#

Then add the numerator to the product of the denominator and whole number

#40+1=41#

Then put #41# over the original denominator

#41/2#

Now, change the second fraction into its reciprocal

Which is just to switch the numerator and denominator

#3/4 => 4/3#

Change the division sign into multiplication

#41/2 xx 4/3#

Multiply the numerators together and the denominators

#164/6#

Simplify

#164/6=27.33 or 82/3#