The number "2⅓" is a mixed number, which combines a whole number and a fraction. In this case, it consists of the whole number 2 and the fraction ⅓. This means it represents two whole units plus one-third of another unit. Mixed numbers are often used in everyday situations, such as cooking or measuring. To convert "2⅓" into an improper fraction, you multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction and then add the numerator. For "2⅓," this calculation is (2 × 3) + 1, resulting in 7/3. This improper fraction can also be useful in mathematical operations.