How would you categorize the fraction 1/2?

The fraction 1/2 is categorized as a proper fraction because it meets the criteria of having a numerator that is less than its denominator. In this case, the numerator is 1 and the denominator is 2, indicating that 1/2 represents a quantity that is less than one whole. Proper fractions are essential in mathematical concepts, especially when working with comparisons and calculations involving fractions, as they indicate values less than one.

In contrast, an improper fraction would have a numerator that is greater than or equal to its denominator, a mixed number combines a whole number with a proper fraction, and there isn’t a specific category known as a whole fraction; thus, the correct classification for 1/2 is a proper fraction.