What is 1/2 of 17?
Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 1/2 of 17? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.
How to calculate 1/2 of 17?
- Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 17 × 1 = 17
- Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 17/2 = 8.5
Since 17/2 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 8 1/2
How does it work?
The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 1/2 of 17, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.
Consider the following proportion: (where x represents 1/2 of 17)
- Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators:
- Which gives:
- Divide both sides by 2 to isolate x:
- Which gives the result:
Thus, 1/2 of 17 is equal to 17/2 (or 8.5 in its decimal form).