Quandaries and Queries
  

 

Is a whole number an improper fraction. For example, is 4 an improper fraction? Is 4 an improper fraction? Is 4 the simplest form for 20/5? Are 4 and 20/5 equivalent fractions?

I'm a teacher. I am teaching elementary math (K-5).Thanks,

Joe

 

 

Hi Joe,

Yes, 4 is an improper fraction. An improper fraction is one whose numerator is greater than or equal to its denominator. Equivalently it is any fraction that is greater than or equal to 1.

4 and 20/5 are equivalent fraction, and 4 is in simplest form.

4 1/5 and 21/5 are also equivalent fractions and both are in simplest form.

Penny