What does it mean to have a third of a …

Mathematics Questions

What does it mean to have a third of a cupcake for me, a third for my sister, and ten thirds for our cousin?

Short Answer

The cupcake division involves splitting a cupcake into thirds, with you and your sister each receiving one-third, while your cousin has ten-thirds (or 3 and 1/3 cupcakes). This illustrates that your cousin has more than one full cupcake, and the improper fraction can be converted into a mixed number for clarity.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understanding Cupcake Division

Dividing a cupcake into *thirds* means creating three equal pieces. When you slice a cupcake in this way, each piece represents one-third of the total cupcake. According to the distribution: you get one-third, your sister gets one-third, and your cousin receives ten-thirds of the cupcake.

Step 2: Analyzing the Fractions

Your cousin having ten-thirds (*10/3*) means they possess more than just one cupcake. To clarify, one whole cupcake equals *3/3*, and anything over that is additional. The breakdown is as follows:

  • Your share: 1/3
  • Your sister’s share: 1/3
  • Your cousin’s share: 10/3 (or 3 and 1/3 cupcakes)

Step 3: Converting to Mixed Numbers

Improper fractions like *10/3* can be converted into mixed numbers. To convert, divide the numerator by the denominator. In our case, *10 divided by 3* equals 3, with a remainder of 1. Thus, you can express *10/3* as the mixed number *3 and 1/3*, to signify your cousin’s actual amount of cake.

Related Concepts

Thirds

Dividing a whole into three equal parts

Improper Fractions

Fractions where the numerator is greater than the denominator, representing a quantity greater than one whole

Mixed Numbers

A way of expressing a number that includes both a whole number and a fractional part.

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