To compare two fractions using benchmarks, you can use commonly known reference fractions such as 0, 1/2, and 1. Here’s how you can do it step by step:
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Identify the fractions you want to compare.
For example, let's say the fractions are \( \frac{3}{8} \) and \( \frac{5}{12} \). -
Convert the fractions to decimals or compare them to benchmark fractions.
- \( \frac{3}{8} = 0.375 \) (compare to 1/2, which is 0.5)
- \( \frac{5}{12} \approx 0.4167 \) (also compare to 1/2)
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Use the benchmark of 1/2 to order the fractions.
Since both \( \frac{3}{8} \) and \( \frac{5}{12} \) are less than 1/2, we know they are both less than 0.5. -
Compare their decimal values directly.
\( 0.375 < 0.4167 \) tells us that \( \frac{3}{8} < \frac{5}{12} \). -
Order the fractions.
Therefore, when ordering the two fractions, we have:
\( \frac{3}{8} < \frac{5}{12} \).
In summary, you can compare fractions using benchmark fractions like 1/2, and then order them based on their relative values.
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