Compare 16/35 and 42/56
16/35 is smaller than 42/56
Steps for comparing fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 35 and 56 is 280
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 280 - For the 1st fraction, since 35 × 8 = 280,
16/35 = 16 × 8/35 × 8 = 128/280 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 56 × 5 = 280,
42/56 = 42 × 5/56 × 5 = 210/280 - Since the denominators are now the same, the fraction with the bigger numerator is the greater fraction
- 128/280 < 210/280 or 16/35 < 42/56
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 32/35 and 42/56 16/35 and 84/56 16/70 and 42/56 48/35 and 42/56 80/35 and 42/56