Compare Fractions: Determine the Symbol Between 5/9 and 3/9

Fraction Comparison with Same Denominators

Fill in the missing sign:

5939 \frac{5}{9}☐\frac{3}{9}

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Choose the appropriate sign
00:03 The denominator is equal
00:09 When the denominator is equal, the larger numerator is the larger fraction
00:13 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Fill in the missing sign:

5939 \frac{5}{9}☐\frac{3}{9}

2

Step-by-step solution

To compare fractions with the same denominator, focus on the numerators:

  • Given fractions: 59\frac{5}{9} and 39\frac{3}{9}
  • Since both fractions have the same denominator (9), we only need to compare the numerators.
  • Numerator of the first fraction is 5, and the numerator of the second fraction is 3.
  • Since 5 is greater than 3, 59\frac{5}{9} is greater than 39\frac{3}{9}.

Therefore, the missing sign that correctly compares the two fractions is >>, so the correct statement is:

59>39\frac{5}{9} > \frac{3}{9}.

3

Final Answer

> >

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Compare numerators when denominators are identical
  • Technique: Since 5 > 3, then 59>39 \frac{5}{9} > \frac{3}{9}
  • Check: Verify: 5 ninths is more than 3 ninths ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Comparing denominators instead of numerators
    Don't look at the bottom numbers (9 and 9) to compare = they're the same so no help! This wastes time and creates confusion. Always compare the top numbers (numerators) when denominators match.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Fill in the missing sign:

\( \frac{5}{9}☐\frac{3}{9} \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why don't I need to look at the denominators when they're the same?

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When denominators are identical, they represent the same-sized pieces! Since both fractions use ninths, you only need to ask: "Is 5 pieces bigger than 3 pieces?"

What if the denominators were different?

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If denominators differ, you'd need to find a common denominator first, then compare numerators. But here, both are ninths, so comparison is easy!

How can I visualize this to make sure?

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Picture a pizza cut into 9 slices. 59 \frac{5}{9} means 5 slices, 39 \frac{3}{9} means 3 slices. Obviously, 5 slices > 3 slices!

Is there a shortcut for comparing fractions?

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Yes! When denominators are the same, just compare the numerators directly. The fraction with the larger numerator is always bigger.

What symbol should I use between the fractions?

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Use the same symbol you'd use between the numerators: Since 5 > 3, then 59>39 \frac{5}{9} > \frac{3}{9} . The greater than symbol (>) points to the smaller number.

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