A mixed number is best described as?

A mixed number is accurately described as a whole number combined with a proper fraction. This means it consists of two parts: the whole number represents the complete units, and the fraction represents the part of a whole that is less than one. For example, in the mixed number 3 ½, '3' is the whole number and '½' is the fractional part. This clearly indicates that mixed numbers offer a way to express quantities that are not whole while still including a whole component. Understanding this definition distinguishes mixed numbers from other numerical forms such as integers, proper fractions, or decimals, all of which do not combine whole numbers and fractions in the same manner.