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Rule #1

When two fractions have the same denominator, the bigger fraction is the one with the bigger numerator.

Rule # 2

When comparing fractions that have the same numerator, the bigger fraction is the one with the smaller denominator.

Rule # 3

You can convert the fractions and then just put the greater than, less than or equal to sign to see what the comparison is between the fractions.

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Q: What are three rules you can use to compare fractions?
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Related questions

How do you order fractions with unlike denominators?

You can convert them to equivalent fractions with like denominators, then simply compare the numerators.You might also convert each fraction to a decimal (divide the numerator by the denominator); then you can also compare them.


Why are decimals easier to compare than fractions?

Because decimals are a form you use regularly like with money, but with fractions, its not used all the time such as a decimal is used.


When do you need to use two number lines to compare two fractions?

When the numbers are greater than 1


How do you multiply fractions with variables?

In order to multiply fractions with variables, factor all numerators and denominators completely. Use the rules for multiplying and dividing fractions, cancel any common factors, and leave your final answer in factored form.


How do you compare and order fractions?

As fractions are numbers you would use the same methods as any other comparison or ordering of numbers. Largest to smallest or smallest to largest are the most likely ways


How do you use comparing mixed fractions?

Assuming the fractions are "normalized" (the fractional part is less than 1): First compare the integer part. If the integer part is the same, you need to compare the fractions. If the denominator of the fractions is different, you have to convert to a common denominator. The simplest way to find a common denominator is to multiply both denominators (i.e., you don't need the LEAST common denominator - any common denominator will do).


Why is it easier to compare fractions with the same rather than denominator?

If the fractions have different denominators, you need to: 1) Convert to equivalent fractions with a common denominator, 2) Compare the numerators. If the fractions already have the same denominator, there is no need for the first step - which happens to be the most difficult step. Note that as a shortcut, you don't need the LEAST common denominator, any denominator can do. Thus, you can just use the product of the two denominators as the common denominator. As a result, to compare the fractions, you simply multiply the numerator of each fraction by the denominator of the other one, and then compare. However, this is still more work than simply comparing two numbers.


What symbol correctly compares two fractions?

You can use the same symbols that you use to compare integers or decimals: equal, greater than, greater-than-or-equal, etc.


How would you use a number line to compare two fractions with different denominators?

You draw each of the fractions on the number line, and see which one is more to the right, i.e., greater. Please note that plotting the exact position of fractions this way is a bit imprecise - it is more exact to convert the fractions to a common denominator.


Why use mixed numbers in fractions?

In a practical sense, sometimes it is better to have whole units rather than just pure fractions. it gives a better idea of "how big" is the thing. Having only fractions could be hard to compare (and thus make decisions based on those measurements)


What is the least common multiple that you can use to add three fractions with the denominator of 6 8 and 9?

72


Do you use notation to compare and order fractions?

You can use the same notation and ordering for fractions as you do integers. The difficulty with fractions is that in most cases you need to find eqivalent denominators to see how they rank. Ie. If I said order for smallest to largest 2/3, 1/6, 72/96 and 24/48. It would be difficult without finding some similar base (is 2/3>72/96?). Instead if you conver them into a common base... 8/12, 2/12, 9/12, 6/12. Now you can easily order and/or compare the fractions.