To solve this question, let's first understand what a mixed number is. A mixed number is a combination of a whole number and a proper fraction. It represents an amount that is more than one whole but less than the next whole number.
Let's analyze each option provided:
A. [tex]\( \frac{2}{5} \)[/tex]
- This is a simple fraction, not a mixed number. It shows a fractional part less than one whole.
B. [tex]\( 2 \frac{1}{2} \)[/tex]
- This is a mixed number. It includes a whole number component (2) and a fractional component ([tex]\(\frac{1}{2}\)[/tex]).
C. 2.3
- This is a decimal number, not a mixed number. It represents a quantity between 2 and 3 but is written in decimal form.
D. [tex]\( \frac{5}{2} \)[/tex]
- This is an improper fraction because the numerator (5) is greater than the denominator (2). It can be converted to a mixed number, but as it stands, it is not presented as one.
Since the definition of a mixed number is a whole number and a proper fraction combined, the only option that matches this description is:
B. [tex]\( 2 \frac{1}{2} \)[/tex]
Therefore, the best answer is B.