- Decompose the mixed numbers \(1 \frac{3}{4}\) and \(2 \frac{2}{2}\) into their integer and fractional parts.
- Simplify \(2 \frac{2}{2}\) to 3, as the fraction \(\frac{2}{2}\) is equal to 1.
- Add the integer parts and the fractional part together: \(1 + 3 + \frac{3}{4} = 4 \frac{3}{4}\).
- The final result is \(\boxed{4 \frac{3}{4}}\).
Explanation
- Analysis of the Problem
We are given the expression \(1 \frac{3}{4} + 2 \frac{2}{2}\). To simplify this, we first recall that a mixed number \(a \frac{b}{c}\) is equivalent to the sum \(a + \frac{b}{c}\). This allows us to break down each part of the expression into its integer and fractional components. Understanding this representation is essential for performing arithmetic with mixed numbers.
- Simplifying the Terms
We process each term separately:
- The first term is \(1 \frac{3}{4}\), which can be written as \(1 + \frac{3}{4}\).
- The second term is \(2 \frac{2}{2}\). We observe that the fractional part is \(\frac{2}{2}\), which equals \(1\). Therefore, \(2 \frac{2}{2} = 2 + \frac{2}{2} = 2 + 1 = 3\).
By simplifying these terms, the original expression simplifies to \(1 + \frac{3}{4} + 3\).
- Final Calculation and Conclusion
Now, we add the results from the previous step:
- Combine the integer parts: \(1 + 3 = 4\).
- Keep the fractional part: \(\frac{3}{4}\).
Combining these, we get \(4 + \frac{3}{4} = 4 \frac{3}{4}\).
Alternatively, as an improper fraction, this is \(\frac{16}{4} + \frac{3}{4} = \frac{19}{4}\). Both representations are valid, but \(4 \frac{3}{4}\) is the most standard form for a mixed number. The final answer is \(\boxed{4 \frac{3}{4}}\).
Examples
Mixed numbers are frequently used in everyday life, especially in cooking. For instance, if a recipe calls for \(1 \frac{3}{4}\) cups of flour and you need to prepare a larger batch requiring an additional \(2 \frac{2}{2}\) cups (which simplifies to 3 cups), knowing how to combine these amounts helps you measure ingredients accurately. By simplifying each part first, you can determine that you need a total of \(4 \frac{3}{4}\) cups of flour for your recipe.