Solve: 3 × 2¼ Mixed Number Multiplication Problem

Mixed Number Multiplication with Distributive Property

3×214= 3\times2\frac{1}{4}=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:04 Let's solve this problem together.
00:07 We will use the distributive law.
00:11 Let's split 2 and one-fourth into 2 plus one-fourth.
00:16 Now, multiply the outer number by each part inside the parenthesis.
00:21 Do the multiplications separately, then add them up.
00:25 And that's how we find the solution!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

3×214= 3\times2\frac{1}{4}=

2

Step-by-step solution

We will use the distributive property of multiplication and separate the fraction into an addition exercise between fractions. This allows us to work with smaller numbers and simplify the operation

Reminder - The distributive property of multiplication allows us to break down the larger term in the multiplication exercise into a sum or difference of smaller numbers, which makes the multiplication operation easier and gives us the ability to solve the exercise without a calculator

3×(2+14)= 3\times(2+\frac{1}{4})=

We will use the distributive property formula a(b+c)=ab+ac a(b+c)=ab+ac

(3×2)(3×14)= (3\times2)-(3\times\frac{1}{4})=

Let's solve what's in the left parentheses:

3×2=6 3\times2=6

Let's solve what's in the right parentheses:

3=31 3=\frac{3}{1}

31×14=3×11×4=34 \frac{3}{1}\times\frac{1}{4}=\frac{3\times1}{1\times4}=\frac{3}{4}

And we get the exercise:

6+34=634 6+\frac{3}{4}=6\frac{3}{4}

And now let's see the solution centered:

3×214=3×(2+14)=(3×2)+(3×14)=6+34=634 3\times2\frac{1}{4}=3\times(2+\frac{1}{4})=(3\times2)+(3\times\frac{1}{4})=6+\frac{3}{4}=6\frac{3}{4}

3

Final Answer

634 6\frac{3}{4}

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions or use distributive property
  • Technique: Break down 214 2\frac{1}{4} into 2+14 2 + \frac{1}{4} then multiply each part
  • Check: Verify 634=274÷3=214 6\frac{3}{4} = \frac{27}{4} ÷ 3 = 2\frac{1}{4}

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Multiplying only the whole number part
    Don't multiply 3 × 2 = 6 and ignore the fraction = 614 6\frac{1}{4} ! This skips multiplying the fractional part and gives the wrong answer. Always multiply the whole number by both the whole part AND the fractional part of the mixed number.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

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FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Should I convert the mixed number to an improper fraction first?

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You have two good options! You can convert 214 2\frac{1}{4} to 94 \frac{9}{4} and multiply, OR use the distributive property like in this solution. Both methods give the same answer!

Why does the distributive property work with mixed numbers?

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Because a mixed number like 214 2\frac{1}{4} is really addition: 2+14 2 + \frac{1}{4} . The distributive property says a(b+c)=ab+ac a(b+c) = ab + ac , so we can multiply each part separately!

How do I add the whole number and fraction at the end?

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When you get 6+34 6 + \frac{3}{4} , simply write it as a mixed number: 634 6\frac{3}{4} . The whole number stays the same, and you just attach the fraction part.

What if I get confused about which operation to use?

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Remember the steps:

  • Identify it's 3×214 3 \times 2\frac{1}{4} (multiplication)
  • Break down: 3×(2+14) 3 \times (2 + \frac{1}{4})
  • Distribute: (3×2)+(3×14) (3 \times 2) + (3 \times \frac{1}{4})
  • Calculate each part and add

Can I check my answer a different way?

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Yes! Convert your answer to an improper fraction: 634=274 6\frac{3}{4} = \frac{27}{4} . Then divide by 3: 274÷3=94=214 \frac{27}{4} ÷ 3 = \frac{9}{4} = 2\frac{1}{4}

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