Comparing Fractions

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole and is expressed as a ratio of two integers, with a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).

Front

How do you compare two fractions?

Back

To compare two fractions, you can find a common denominator, convert them to equivalent fractions, and then compare the numerators, or you can cross-multiply and compare the results.

Front

What does it mean for one fraction to be greater than another?

Back

A fraction A/B is greater than C/D if A/B > C/D, meaning that A*D > B*C when cross-multiplying.

Front

What does it mean for one fraction to be less than another?

Back

A fraction A/B is less than C/D if A/B < C/D, meaning that A*D < B*C when cross-multiplying.

Front

What is a common denominator?

Back

A common denominator is a shared multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions, allowing for easy comparison or addition.

Front

How can you find a common denominator for 3/5 and 1/2?

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) of 5 and 2 is 10. Convert 3/5 to 6/10 and 1/2 to 5/10 to compare.

Front

What is an equivalent fraction?

Back

An equivalent fraction is a fraction that represents the same value as another fraction, achieved by multiplying or dividing both the numerator and denominator by the same non-zero number.

Front

How do you convert a fraction to a decimal?

Back

To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator.

Front

What is the relationship between improper fractions and mixed numbers?

Back

An improper fraction has a numerator that is greater than or equal to its denominator, while a mixed number combines a whole number and a proper fraction.

Front

What is the significance of shaded models in comparing fractions?

Back

Shaded models visually represent fractions, making it easier to compare their sizes by showing the proportion of the whole that is shaded.