Solving 6 ÷ 2 1/2 (also written as 6 ÷ 2½) is a common mixed number division problem on the GED Math test. Follow this step-by-step guide to get the correct answer: 2.4 or 12/5. This explains the answer to 6 ÷ 2 1/2 clearly for test prep or real-world use.
Step 1: Convert the Mixed Number to an Improper Fraction
2 1/2 means 2 + 1/2. Convert to improper fraction: 2 1/2 = (2 × 2) + 1 = 5/2
Now the problem is: 6 ÷ 5/2
Step 2: Use the "Keep, Change, Flip" Rule for Division
To divide by a fraction:
- Keep the first number: 6
- Change ÷ to ×
- Flip the second fraction: 5/2 → 2/5
So: 6 ÷ 5/2 = 6 × 2/5
Step 3: Multiply and Simplify
6 × 2/5 = (6 × 2) / (1 × 5) = 12/5
12/5 as a decimal: 2.4 12/5 as a mixed number: 2 2/5
Final Answer: 6 ÷ 2 1/2 = 12/5 or 2.4
Alternative Method: Convert to Decimals First
2 1/2 = 2.5 6 ÷ 2.5 Move decimal: 2.5 × ? = 6 → ? = 2.4 (same answer)
Why This Appears on the GED Math Test
6 ÷ 2 1/2 tests:
- Mixed number operations
- Fraction division
- Real-world skills (e.g., splitting 6 meters of fabric into pieces of 2.5 meters each → 2.4 pieces)
Quick Tips to Avoid Mistakes
- Don’t subtract—always multiply by the reciprocal
- Double-check: 2.4 × 2.5 = 6 (yes, correct)
- Use the on-screen TI-30XS calculator on GED Part 2: enter 6 ÷ 2.5 = 2.4
Now you know the answer to 6 ÷ 2 1/2 is 12/5 or 2.4—a key skill for passing GED Math in Kenya or anywhere!