Mathematics
Grade 10
15 min
Put fractions in order
Put fractions in order
Tutorial Preview
1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Order sets of positive and negative rational fractions using the Least Common Denominator (LCD) method.
Efficiently compare any two fractions using the cross-multiplication technique.
Convert various fractions to their decimal equivalents for comparison and ordering.
Order fractions that include irrational numbers, such as π or √2, by using appropriate approximations.
Substitute values into algebraic fractions to compare their magnitudes.
Analyze a given set of fractions and select the most efficient ordering strategy.
Which is a better deal: getting 3/4 of a pizza for $10 or 4/5 of a pizza for $11? 🍕 Let's figure out how to compare these values precisely!
This tutorial will equip you with advanced strategies for ordering any set of fractions, incl...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Least Common Denominator (LCD)The smallest positive integer that is a multiple of the denominators of a given set of fractions. It's also known as the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of the denominators.For the fractions 1/6 and 3/8, the denominators are 6 and 8. The multiples of 6 are 6, 12, 18, 24... and the multiples of 8 are 8, 16, 24... The LCD is 24.
Equivalent FractionsFractions that represent the same value, even though they may have different numerators and denominators. They are created by multiplying or dividing the numerator and denominator by the same non-zero number.3/5 is equivalent to 6/10 because both the numerator and denominator were multiplied by 2. Both equal 0.6.
Improper FractionA fraction where the absolute value of the numerator is greater t...
3
Core Formulas
Least Common Denominator (LCD) Method
To compare \( \frac{a}{b} \) and \( \frac{c}{d} \), find the LCD. Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the LCD. Then, compare the new numerators.
This is the most reliable method for ordering three or more fractions. Once all fractions share the same denominator, the one with the largest numerator is the largest fraction (for positive fractions).
Cross-Multiplication Rule
To compare \( \frac{a}{b} \) and \( \frac{c}{d} \) (for b, d > 0): If \( a \cdot d > b \cdot c \), then \( \frac{a}{b} > \frac{c}{d} \). If \( a \cdot d < b \cdot c \), then \( \frac{a}{b} < \frac{c}{d} \).
This is a quick and powerful shortcut for comparing exactly two fractions. Be cautious when negative numbers are involved, as the ineq...
4 more steps in this tutorial
Sign up free to access the complete tutorial with worked examples and practice.
Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Challenging
For any positive integer x, what is the correct order from least to greatest for the fractions: A = (x+1)/x, B = x/(x+1), and C = (x+2)/(x+1)?
A.B, C, A
B.C, B, A
C.A, C, B
D.B, A, C
Challenging
Arrange the fractions 5/6, 7/9, 11/15, and 13/18 from least to greatest.
A.11/15, 13/18, 5/6, 7/9
B.13/18, 11/15, 7/9, 5/6
C.13/18, 7/9, 11/15, 5/6
D.5/6, 7/9, 11/15, 13/18
Challenging
For which of the following positive integer values of 'n' is the algebraic fraction (n+3)/(2n-1) greater than 1?
A.n = 5
B.n = 4
C.n = 3
D.n = 6
Want to practice and check your answers?
Sign up to access all questions with instant feedback, explanations, and progress tracking.
Start Practicing Free