How to compare fractions to different denominators

How to compare fractions to different denominators

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To compare fractions to identical denominators, it is necessary just to compare their numerators. A little differently the situation is in case two fractions are various on a denominator. Here it will be required to perform slightly more operations.

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Instruction

1. Fractions cannot be compared to different numerators and denominators without their transformation. The fraction can be given to any denominator, a multiple denominator of this fraction. It means that the new denominator has to be divided totally into a denominator of this fraction. For example, the denominator 32 as 32 is divided totally into 8 can be a new denominator of fraction 3/8.

2. Divide a new denominator into old. 32:8 = 4. You received an additional multiplier.

3. To lead fraction to a new denominator, increase its numerator and a multiplier by an additional multiplier. For example, if you want to lead fraction 3/8 to a denominator 32, increase both 3, and 8 by number 4.

4. Now lead fractions which you need to compare, to a common denominator. For comparison of two fractions take the work of their denominators as this number will be multiple to both denominators for a common denominator. Such number is called the smallest common denominator. Let's say you need to compare fractions 5/7 and 3/5. At first multiply denominators. At multiplication on 5 35 will turn out 7. It is a common denominator.

5. Number 5 as 35:7 = 5 will be an additional multiplier for fraction 5/7. Increase numerator and a denominator of fraction by 5. We receive 25/35.

6. Number 7 as 35:5 = 7 will be an additional multiplier for fraction 3/5. Increase numerator and a denominator of fraction by 7. We receive 21/35.

7. Now compare the turned-out fractions. (Smaller) that fraction which has a numerator more (less) will be bigger. 25/35> 21/35. Therefore, 5/7> 3/5. The task is solved successfully.

Author: «MirrorInfo» Dream Team

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