What is 3/8 of 59?
Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 3/8 of 59? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.
How to calculate 3/8 of 59?
- Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 59 × 3 = 177
- Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 177/8 = 22.125
Since 177/8 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 22 1/8
How does it work?
The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 3/8 of 59, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.
Consider the following proportion: (where x represents 3/8 of 59)
- Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators:
- Which gives:
- Divide both sides by 8 to isolate x:
- Which gives the result:
Thus, 3/8 of 59 is equal to 177/8 (or 22.125 in its decimal form).