Compare 3/72 and 42/60
3/72 is smaller than 42/60
Steps for comparing fractions
- Find the least common denominator or LCM of the two denominators:
LCM of 72 and 60 is 360
Next, find the equivalent fraction of both fractional numbers with denominator 360 - For the 1st fraction, since 72 × 5 = 360,
3/72 = 3 × 5/72 × 5 = 15/360 - Likewise, for the 2nd fraction, since 60 × 6 = 360,
42/60 = 42 × 6/60 × 6 = 252/360 - Since the denominators are now the same, the fraction with the bigger numerator is the greater fraction
- 15/360 < 252/360 or 3/72 < 42/60
MathStep (Works offline)
Download our mobile app and learn to work with fractions in your own time:
Android and iPhone/ iPad
Related: 6/72 and 42/60 3/72 and 84/60 9/72 and 42/60 15/72 and 42/60 21/72 and 42/60