Question

Choose the symbol that makes the following sentence true: 5/8 __ 7/12.

=
<
>

Answer 1

To compare the fractions \( \frac{5}{8} \) and \( \frac{7}{12} \), we need to find a common denominator or convert them to decimals.

1. Find the least common denominator (LCD). The denominators are 8 and 12. The LCD of 8 and 12 is 24.

2. Convert \( \frac{5}{8} \) to a fraction with a denominator of 24:
\[
\frac{5}{8} = \frac{5 \times 3}{8 \times 3} = \frac{15}{24}
\]

3. Convert \( \frac{7}{12} \) to a fraction with a denominator of 24:
\[
\frac{7}{12} = \frac{7 \times 2}{12 \times 2} = \frac{14}{24}
\]

Now we can compare \( \frac{15}{24} \) and \( \frac{14}{24} \):
\[
\frac{15}{24} > \frac{14}{24}
\]

Therefore, \( \frac{5}{8} > \frac{7}{12} \).

The correct symbol to use is:
\[
>
\]