Solve Mixed Number Multiplication: 2 × 2½

A mixed number like $2\frac{1}{2}$ is one complete value, not two separate numbers! Multiplying parts separately changes the meaning and gives wrong answers.

Use this formula: (whole number × denominator) + numerator. For $2\frac{1}{2}$: (2×2)+1 = 5, so it becomes $\frac{5}{2}$.

You could use the distributive property: $2 \times 2\frac{1}{2} = 2 \times 2 + 2 \times \frac{1}{2} = 4 + 1 = 5$. But converting to improper fractions is more reliable!

Always simplify your answer! If you get an improper fraction, convert it back to a mixed number or whole number when possible, like $\frac{10}{2} = 5$.

Think about it logically: $2\frac{1}{2}$ is between 2 and 3, so $2 \times 2\frac{1}{2}$ should be between 4 and 6. Since 5 fits this range, it makes sense!