What is 2/5 of 38?
Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 2/5 of 38? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.
How to calculate 2/5 of 38?
- Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 38 × 2 = 76
- Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 76/5 = 15.2
Since 76/5 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 15 1/5
How does it work?
The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 2/5 of 38, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.
Consider the following proportion: (where x represents 2/5 of 38)
- Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators:
- Which gives:
- Divide both sides by 5 to isolate x:
- Which gives the result:
Thus, 2/5 of 38 is equal to 76/5 (or 15.2 in its decimal form).