What is 5/4 of 3?
Often, in mathematics or everyday life, we need to find a fraction of a given number. For instance, how would you quickly calculate 5/4 of 3? We'll show you a straightforward method to achieve that.
How to calculate 5/4 of 3?
- Multiply the whole number by the numerator of the fraction: 3 × 5 = 15
- Divide this result by denominator of the fraction: 15/4 = 3.75
Since 15/4 is an improper fraction, the result could also be expressed as a mixed number: 3 3/4
How does it work?
The principle behind finding a fraction of a number, such as 5/4 of 3, is rooted in the method of cross-multiplication.
Consider the following proportion: (where x represents 5/4 of 3)
- Using the cross-multiplication method, multiply both numerators by their opposite denominators:
- Which gives:
- Divide both sides by 4 to isolate x:
- Which gives the result:
Thus, 5/4 of 3 is equal to 15/4 (or 3.75 in its decimal form).