Final answer:
Yes, the sum of two positive mixed numbers can be less than 3 if each mixed number is less than 1.5. For example, the sum of 1 1/4 and 1 1/4 is 2.5, which is less than 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
- The question asks if the sum of two positive mixed numbers can be less than 3. To start with, we know that when two positive numbers are added, the result is also a positive number.
- This is always true and is known as the commutative property of addition, which states that A+B=B+A.
- Two positive mixed numbers each have a whole number part and a fractional part.
- Given that we are looking for a sum that is less than 3, we can consider two mixed numbers that are both less than 1.5 because 1.5 + 1.5 equals 3.
- For instance, we can take two mixed numbers like 1 1/4 (which is 1.25) and 1 1/4 again.
- Adding these two mixed numbers, we get 1.25 + 1.25 = 2.5, which is clearly less than 3. Therefore, it is possible for the sum of two positive mixed numbers to be less than 3.