What is 1/3 of 52?

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 52? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.

How to calculate 1/3 of 52?

  1. Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 52 × 1 = 52
  2. Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 52/3 = 17.333333333333

Since 52/3 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 17 1/3

How does it work?

The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 1/3 of 52, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.

Consider the following proportion: 1 3 = x 52 (where x represents 1/3 of 52)

  1. Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators: 1 × 52 = 3 x
  2. Which gives: 52 = 3 x
  3. Divide both sides by 3 to isolate x: 52 3 = 3 x 3
  4. Which gives the result: 52 3 = x

Thus, 1/3 of 52 is equal to 52/3 (or 17.333333333333 in its decimal form).