Mathematics
Grade 5
15 min
Multiply fractions and mixed numbers in recipes
Multiply fractions and mixed numbers in recipes
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Multiply a fraction by a whole number to scale recipe ingredients.
Multiply two fractions to adjust recipe quantities.
Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions and vice versa.
Multiply mixed numbers by fractions or whole numbers to modify recipes.
Simplify fraction products to their simplest form.
Apply fraction and mixed number multiplication to real-world recipe scenarios.
Interpret and solve word problems involving scaling recipes with fractions.
Ever wanted to bake a giant batch of cookies or just a tiny treat? 🍪 Knowing how to change a recipe is like having a superpower in the kitchen!
In this lesson, you'll learn how to multiply fractions and mixed numbers. This skill is super useful for adjusting recipes, whether you want to make more o...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
FractionA number that represents a part of a whole. It has a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).In a recipe, $\frac{1}{2}$ cup of sugar means one part out of two equal parts of a cup.
Mixed NumberA number consisting of a whole number and a fraction.If a recipe calls for $1\frac{3}{4}$ cups of flour, it means 1 whole cup and $\frac{3}{4}$ of another cup.
NumeratorThe top number in a fraction, which tells you how many parts of the whole you have.In $\frac{2}{3}$ cup of milk, the '2' is the numerator, meaning you have 2 parts out of 3.
DenominatorThe bottom number in a fraction, which tells you how many equal parts the whole is divided into.In $\frac{2}{3}$ cup of milk, the '3' is the denominator, meaning the cup is divided into...
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Core Formulas
Multiplying Fractions
$\frac{a}{b} \times \frac{c}{d} = \frac{a \times c}{b \times d}$
To multiply two fractions, multiply the numerators together and multiply the denominators together. Then, simplify the resulting fraction if possible.
Multiplying a Fraction by a Whole Number
$N \times \frac{a}{b} = \frac{N}{1} \times \frac{a}{b} = \frac{N \times a}{b}$
To multiply a fraction by a whole number, first write the whole number as a fraction with a denominator of 1. Then, multiply the numerators and the denominators as usual.
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
$A\frac{b}{c} = \frac{(A \times c) + b}{c}$
Before multiplying mixed numbers, convert them into improper fractions. Multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place the result...
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Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Challenging
A recipe for a large pitcher of lemonade makes 8 servings and uses 1 1/2 cups of lemon juice. You want to make enough for 12 servings. The recipe also states to use 1/4 cup of sugar for every 1 cup of lemon juice. How much sugar will you need for the 12-serving batch?
A.3/8 cup
B.1/2 cup
C.9/16 cup
D.3/4 cup
Challenging
A recipe for chili makes enough for 6 people and uses 2 1/2 pounds of beans. You are having a party with 9 people. If you buy a 5-pound bag of beans, how many pounds of beans will you have left over after making the chili?
A.1 1/4 pounds
B.1 1/2 pounds
C.3 3/4 pounds
D.2 1/2 pounds
Challenging
A recipe for granola bars requires 2 1/3 cups of oats. You decide to make only 3/4 of the recipe. After you measure the correct amount of oats, you accidentally spill 1/4 cup on the floor. How many cups of oats do you have left to use in the recipe?
A.1 3/4 cups
B.1 1/2 cups
C.2 1/12 cups
D.1 1/4 cups
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