What is 3/2 of 53?

Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 3/2 of 53? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.

How to calculate 3/2 of 53?

  1. Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 53 × 3 = 159
  2. Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 159/2 = 79.5

Since 159/2 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 79 1/2

How does it work?

The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 3/2 of 53, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.

Consider the following proportion: 3 2 = x 53 (where x represents 3/2 of 53)

  1. Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators: 3 × 53 = 2 x
  2. Which gives: 159 = 2 x
  3. Divide both sides by 2 to isolate x: 159 2 = 2 x 2
  4. Which gives the result: 159 2 = x

Thus, 3/2 of 53 is equal to 159/2 (or 79.5 in its decimal form).