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what is 1/3 of 50

what is 1/3 of 50

2 min read 05-02-2025
what is 1/3 of 50

Knowing how to calculate fractions of numbers is a fundamental math skill. This article will guide you through calculating one-third of 50, explaining the process in a clear and easy-to-understand way. We'll cover different methods, ensuring you grasp the concept thoroughly.

Understanding the Problem: 1/3 of 50

The phrase "1/3 of 50" means we need to find one-third (1/3) the value of 50. In simpler terms, we want to divide 50 into three equal parts and then take one of those parts.

Method 1: Direct Calculation (Multiplication)

The most straightforward method is to multiply 50 by the fraction 1/3:

50 x (1/3) = 50/3

This gives us an improper fraction, 50/3. To convert this to a mixed number (a whole number and a fraction), we perform division:

50 ÷ 3 = 16 with a remainder of 2.

Therefore, 50/3 can be expressed as the mixed number 16 2/3.

Method 2: Division First, Then Multiplication

Alternatively, we can first divide 50 by the denominator (3) and then multiply by the numerator (1):

50 ÷ 3 ≈ 16.666...

16.666... x 1 = 16.666...

This method provides the decimal equivalent of the fraction. Rounding to two decimal places, we get 16.67. Note that this is an approximation; 16 2/3 is the exact answer.

Method 3: Dividing into Three Equal Parts

Imagine you have 50 objects. To find one-third, you would divide those 50 objects into three equal groups. Each group would contain approximately 16.67 objects. Since you can't have a fraction of an object, this illustrates that the precise answer includes a fraction: 16 2/3.

Which Method is Best?

All three methods arrive at the same answer, though they express it differently. The first method (direct multiplication) gives you the most accurate fractional representation (16 2/3). The second method is useful if you need a decimal approximation. The third method is helpful for visualizing the problem. Choose the method that works best for your understanding and the context of the problem.

Conclusion: The Answer is 16 2/3

Therefore, one-third of 50 is 16 2/3. Understanding how to solve this type of problem is essential for various mathematical applications and real-life scenarios. Remember, practice is key to mastering fraction calculations! Try finding other fractions of different numbers to solidify your understanding.

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