9. \( 2 \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{3}{6}= \)

To solve \( 2 \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{3}{6} \), first convert the mixed number to an improper fraction. So, \( 2 \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{2} \). Now, multiply it by \( \frac{3}{6} \). Simplifying \( \frac{3}{6} \) gives us \( \frac{1}{2} \). Therefore, \( \frac{5}{2} \times \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5 \times 1}{2 \times 2} = \frac{5}{4} \) or \( 1 \frac{1}{4} \). Did you know that mixed numbers originated from the need to express whole numbers combined with fractions? Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, used similar systems! It made calculations easier in trade and agriculture, where weights and measures were often part of the equation. In the world of cooking, dealing with mixed numbers or fractions is a common scenario! A recipe might call for \( 2 \frac{1}{2} \) cups of flour, and understanding how to multiply that by another fraction, like \( \frac{3}{6} \), is vital to cooking success. Whether you’re baking bread or whipping up a cake, mastering these conversions can help ensure your culinary creations turn out just right!