Final answer:
To find the unit rate in chapters per hour, divide the number of chapters read by the number of hours taken, remembering to convert mixed numbers to improper fractions.
In this case, the unit rate is 1.5 chapters per hour.
Step-by-step explanation:
To convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions, multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator.
In this case, to find the unit rate in chapters per hour, divide the number of chapters read by the number of hours taken. Kira reads 8 1/4 chapters in 5 1/2 hours.
Therefore, the number of chapters read is (8 x 4 + 1) / 4 = 33/4 chapters.
Similarly, the number of hours taken is (5 x 2 + 1) / 2 = 11/2 hours.
Now, divide the number of chapters read (33/4) by the number of hours taken (11/2) to get the unit rate in chapters per hour.
Dividing fractions involves multiplying by the reciprocal, so (33/4) ÷ (11/2) is the same as (33/4) * (2/11).
After simplifying, the unit rate is 3/2 or 1.5 chapters per hour.