To find the number in the middle of 1.5 and 7.1, you need to calculate the average of these two numbers. Here is a step-by-step solution:
1. First, add the two numbers together:
[tex]\[
1.5 + 7.1 = 8.6
\][/tex]
2. Next, divide the sum by 2 to find the average:
[tex]\[
\frac{8.6}{2} = 4.3
\][/tex]
Therefore, the number in the middle of 1.5 and 7.1 is 4.3.