Mixed fractions are a special type of fractions. In this post, we will learn the definition of a mixed fraction with examples.
Definition of Mixed Fraction
A fraction is called a mixed fraction if it is a combination of a whole number and a proper fraction. For example, 2$\dfrac{1}{2}$ is a mixed fraction.
By definition, a mixed fraction always lies between two consecutive whole numbers. see that the above mixed fraction 1$\dfrac{1}{2}$ lies between 1 and 2.
Mixed Fraction Examples
- 2$\dfrac{2}{3}$ is a mixed fraction as it is a combination of the whole number 2 and the proper fraction $\dfrac{2}{3}$.
- Similarly, 3$\dfrac{1}{3}$, 5$\dfrac{7}{8}$ are mixed fractions.
- The general form of a mixed fraction is $a\dfrac{b}{c}$ where a,b, and c are whole numbers and b<c.
- 2$\dfrac{3}{2}$ is not a mixed fraction as $\dfrac{3}{2}$ is not a proper fraction.
Question 1:
Is $\dfrac{5}{2}$ is a mixed fraction?
Answer:
As $\dfrac{5}{2}$ is an improper fraction, it is not a mixed fraction. But this improper fraction can be converted into a mixed fraction. See the steps
$\dfrac{5}{2}$
= $\dfrac{4+1}{2}$
= $\dfrac{4}{2}+\dfrac{1}{2}$
= $2+\dfrac{1}{2}$
= 2 $\dfrac{1}{2}$ which is a mixed fraction.
In the above way, we can convert an improper fraction into a mixed fraction easily.
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FAQs
Q1: What is a mixed fraction?
Answer: A mixed fraction is a combination of a whole number and a proper fraction. So 2 $\dfrac{2}{5}$ is a mixed fraction.