Question

How do you solve `7/9=a/5`?

Answer 1

The answer as an improper fraction is `35/9`.
The answer as a mixed fraction is `4 3/9`.
The answer using a calculator is `3.888888888889`.

Explanation:

Solve `7/9=a/5`

First cross multiply.

`7xx5=9xxa`

Simplify.

`35=9a`

Divide both sides by `9`.

`35/9=a`

Switch sides.
This is not an essential step, but a lot of teachers like the variable on the left-hand side.

`a=35/9`

This fraction cannot be reduced.

However, it can be written as a mixed fraction.

To convert the improper fraction to a mixed fraction, divide the numerator by the denominator to get the whole number, and write the remainder as the numerator.

`35-:9=32` remainder `3`

`35/9=4 3/9`

You could also use a calculator.

`35/9=3.888888888889`