Compare 2/72 and 42/45
2/72 is smaller than 42/45
Steps for comparing fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 45 is 360
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
2/72 = 2 × 5/72 × 5 = 10/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 45 × 8 = 360,
42/45 = 42 × 8/45 × 8 = 336/360 - Since the denominators are now the same, the fraction with the bigger numerator is the greater fraction
- 10/360 < 336/360 or 2/72 < 42/45
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