2. \( 3 \frac{1}{2} \times 12 \)

To solve \( 3 \frac{1}{2} \times 12 \), first convert the mixed number into an improper fraction. \( 3 \frac{1}{2} \) is \( \frac{7}{2} \). Now, multiply this by 12, which can be written as \( \frac{12}{1} \). Now, the multiplication looks like this: \( \frac{7}{2} \times \frac{12}{1} = \frac{7 \times 12}{2 \times 1} = \frac{84}{2} = 42 \). So, \( 3 \frac{1}{2} \times 12 = 42 \). For a little fun, did you know that multiplying fractions can be as simple as pie? Just remember to multiply the tops (numerators) and the bottoms (denominators) separately. And remember to check your work! A common mistake is to forget to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, but once you do, everything gets a whole lot simpler! Keep that in mind next time and happy calculating!