What is 5/2 of 71?

Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 5/2 of 71? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.

How to calculate 5/2 of 71?

  1. Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 71 × 5 = 355
  2. Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 355/2 = 177.5

Since 355/2 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 177 1/2

How does it work?

The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 5/2 of 71, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.

Consider the following proportion: 5 2 = x 71 (where x represents 5/2 of 71)

  1. Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators: 5 × 71 = 2 x
  2. Which gives: 355 = 2 x
  3. Divide both sides by 2 to isolate x: 355 2 = 2 x 2
  4. Which gives the result: 355 2 = x

Thus, 5/2 of 71 is equal to 355/2 (or 177.5 in its decimal form).