Compare Fractions: Determine the Correct Symbol Between 1/4 and 5/6

Video Solution

Solution Steps

00:05 First, let's choose the right math sign.

00:08 Next, we'll find a common denominator.

00:12 So, multiply each fraction by the other's denominator.

00:16 Be sure to multiply both the top number and the bottom number.

00:25 We'll do the same for the second fraction, as well.

00:29 Again, multiply both numerator and denominator.

00:34 Great! Now, both fractions have the same bottom number.

00:39 With equal denominators, the larger numerator means a larger fraction.

00:45 And there you have it! That's the solution.

Step-by-Step Solution

To solve this problem, we'll compare the fractions: $\frac{1}{4}$ and $\frac{5}{6}$ .

Step 1: Determine the least common denominator (LCD) of the fractions' denominators, 4 and 6. The LCM of 4 and 6 is 12.
Step 2: Convert $\frac{1}{4}$ to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 12:

$\frac{1}{4} = \frac{1 \times 3}{4 \times 3} = \frac{3}{12}$

Step 3: Convert $\frac{5}{6}$ to an equivalent fraction with a denominator of 12:

$\frac{5}{6} = \frac{5 \times 2}{6 \times 2} = \frac{10}{12}$

Since $3$ is less than $10$ , we conclude that $\frac{1}{4}$ is less than $\frac{5}{6}$ .

Thus, the missing sign is $<$ .