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Compare and Order Fractions
Compare and Order Fractions
The Least Common Multiple between 8 and 12 is 24 because both 8 and 12 go into 24.
Since 8 is multiplied by 3 in order to get 24, we must also multiply the top by 3.
Since 12 is multiplied by 2 in order to get 24, we must also multiply the top by 2.
Once we've done this, it's easy to see where the 15 and 14 come from in the numerators of our new fractions.
Since 15 is greater than 14, the fraction on the left is greater than the one on the right.
Another way to do this!
Another way to do this!
We can use our cross multiplication technique on a problem like this as well.
Instead of finding the LCM, we can simply cross multiply 12 x 5 and 8 x 7. Whichever number is larger is the fraction that is larger.
Both methods are equally good on mixed numbers as well. You only have to compare the fraction portion of each mixed number in order to solve. There is no need to turn these into improper fractions if you do not want to.
Both methods can also be used in order to order numbers from least to greatest, though finding common denominators using Least Common Multiples is probably more effective.
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Homework:
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