What is 1/3 of 16?
Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 1/3 of 16? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.
How to calculate 1/3 of 16?
- Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 16 × 1 = 16
- Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 16/3 = 5.3333333333333
Since 16/3 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 5 1/3
How does it work?
The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 1/3 of 16, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.
Consider the following proportion: (where x represents 1/3 of 16)
- Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators:
- Which gives:
- Divide both sides by 3 to isolate x:
- Which gives the result:
Thus, 1/3 of 16 is equal to 16/3 (or 5.3333333333333 in its decimal form).