Chapter 2 Fractions

Introduction to Fractions and Mixed Numbers Section 2.2 Introduction to Fractions and Mixed Numbers

Fraction A fraction is a number written in the form where a and b are whole numbers and b is not zero.

Proper Fraction and Improper Fraction Proper fraction or a common fraction A fraction in which the numerator is less than the denominator. Improper fraction A fraction in which the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator. An improper fraction is always greater than or equal to 1.

Mixed Number and Complex Fraction A number that combines a whole number with a fraction. Complex Fraction Is a quotient of the form where A or B or both are fractions and B is not zero.

Example Classify each as a proper fraction, an improper fraction, or a mixed number.

Solution Strategy is an improper fraction. is a mixed number. is a proper fraction.

Fraction - Represent Part of a Whole A candy bar cut into 8 equal pieces. 3 pieces are eaten (red). That represents .

Fraction - Represent Part of a Whole A pizza cut into 12 equal pieces. 7 pieces are eaten (shaded). That represents .

Example Write a fraction or mixed number to represent the shaded portion of each figure.

Example Write a fraction or mixed number to represent the shaded portion of each figure.

Solution Strategy The fraction is The fraction is

Solution Strategy The fraction is

Improper Fraction to a Mixed Number

Example Write each improper fraction as a mixed or whole number.

Solution Strategy Write each improper fraction as a mixed or whole number.

Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction

Example Write each mixed number as an improper fraction.

Solution Strategy Write each mixed number as an improper fraction.

Example Apply your knowledge An accounting office has 25 employees. Eight of the employees are certified public accountants and the rest are support staff. What fraction of the total do accountants represent? What fraction of the total do support staffers represent?

Solution Strategy a. 8 represents the part of the total in which we are interested. 25 is the total so the fraction is b. 25 – 8 = 17 represents the part of the total in which we are interested. 25 is the total so the fraction is